Best Inflatable Kayak

Kayaking in Italy

Living in Canada you just don’t think about kayaking in Italy. However when in nearby southern France one time our small group went canoeing on the Dordogne River. There were standing waves but nothing too serious on the stretch of river we tackled. What I appreciated was that part way during our trip we could head to the shore and take a short walk to a cafe for a strong coffee and some cake.

I love visiting Italy with the quaint family owned hotels, wonderful food and even more wondersful wines and Northern Italy is just so scenic. So I read with interest this article about a group of American and German kayakers testing the rivers in northern Italy.

After our first cappuccino, we decided to go look at a section of the Sesia to run, as everything else was quite high. We picked a fun big water section from below the Balmucchia rapid that ran to Varallo. And we took out just above a large weir. It was a big fun run with some big waves, holes, and eddylines, sort of like a cross between the Nile and Futaleufu. We even found some cool play spots just near our take out. Since it was still raining with no sign of anything letting up, we decided to go have a look at some creeks and other rivers just to see what they looked like. Lars took us high up close to the top of the Mastallone. It was incredibly steep and remote though there were small towns up high in the mountains. Apparently, much of the area was part of the resistance in the Second World War and home to a culture of people known as the Walsers who still exist today and speak a Germanic language. This area certainly looked like a good place to hide out! After exploring to the end of the road, we decided that we would run a section of the Mastallone the next day even though we figured it would be pretty high.

The next morning, it was still raining but not as much and we got ourselves ready to run that section of the mastellone. It certainly started off quickly and there was plenty of water to help move things along. The rapids were quite continuous and wide open though the riverbed is much smaller than the Sesia. It was a fun and action packed run. Since we enjoyed the run so much, we decided to do it a second time. Once the sun came out, everything was even more beautiful than in had been in the rain….More at Paddling – Italian Style – part 1 – Jackson Kayak – Whitewater …

Kayaking or canoeing in Europe makes for the total vacation with challenging rivers or even exploring along the Mediterrean coas. With rivers located not far from airports and easy access with a rental car or using the high speed trains to quickly get to your destination. It is also easy to rent kayaks (or canoes) when you arrive whether in Italy, France or neighboring countries.

The best part of this type of trip is the combination of exploring both the rivers and the local cultures. Heading over to Europe, consider kayaking in Italy.

Coastal Sea Kayaking Expeditions

Photo: Steve Thomsen

Years ago I had often gone on canoe trips for extended periods packed with a lightweight tent, cooking gear and sleeping bag. I live in Ontario and there are numerous lakes connected by rivers or marked portages in the backcountry. In recent years many canoeists find kayakers accompanying them on the journey as this sport gains popularity. Our local outdoor recreation club has a selection of canoes and kayaks for members.

Of course your kayak needs to be able to carry your gear but there are many lightweight products available today. Something a little different, this kayaker talks about his experiences after moving to the Pacific Northwest.

Edgy like the mountains, wild and remote, but dangerous if you weren’t careful. I found the shelter situation a little different there too. High-end mountaineering tents were de ri·gueur to withstand torrential rains and hurricane force winds that visited the north coast on occasion, but most of us carried roomier models to accommodate a slew of dry bags and to provide a more comfortable lifestyle when we were weathered in.

Coastal sea kayaking is as much about the beaches where we go ashore to spend the night as the water we paddle over. Northwest marine weather is fickle and prone to surprises gales and storms, particularly in fringe seasons. Even in mid-summer the chance of a steady downpour is a good bet. While some of us simply put on the rain gear and carry on with business as usual, or throw up a tarp to hunker under, others relish the downtime, relaxing in a trusted sanctuary while leaden skies piss and moan…..More at Kayak Shelters

Whether backpacking, bicycle touring or sea kayaking an adventure type trip is about the preparation and having the right gear for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. There are now bivy (bivouac) tents and sacks available weighting from 3 to 6 pounds and very compact as they are designed for backpackers which are suitable kayak shelters. Likewise other backpacking equipment by design is lightweight and compact is size so very suitable for your kayak expeditions.

Of course the spectacular scenery, exercise, clean outdoor air and sense of adventure are all part of the fun during your coastal sea kayaking expedition.

Best Selling Kayaks

The inflatable Best Selling Kayaks item currently is the:

Intex Challenger K1 Kayak

The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is the best seller inflatable style this month. It is not really a surprise due to it low price plus the quick and easy set up.

Some people feel they might puncture easily, however you will find it does hold up well.

This is a fun type kayak, more raft like so if you are looking into some serious kayaking you should consider a different model. It is easy to navigate as it tracks straight.

Many people purchase better paddles and a better pump as well, although what comes with the kayak does work.

Overall this kayak is comfortable, handles well on the water for a low price, and yet is pretty easy to set up so it is not surprising it is the number one best seller in this category at Amazon!

Current Top 12 Best Selling Kayaks:

Clicking the above Amazon links provides additional information and product reviews.

The list above is the best selling kayaks currently according to Amazon. We have found Amazon to have the best prices for kayaks and outdoor gear.

Also not surprisingly all of these best sellers are rated highly by customers who have purchased them. You will notice this list includes both inflatable kayaks and the more traditional style for both whitewater and fishing.

If you are searching for the best selling kayaks for this spring one of these models is sure to be perfect for your next trip.

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Date Published: Mar 28, 2012 - 12:11 pm

Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Review

The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak lets you have fun and adventure by spending your summer days out on the water. This inflatable kayak is designed for easy paddling on both lakes and mild rivers.

Click here to purchase from Amazon today!

What is good about the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak

Easy paddling – with a streamlined design it makes for easy paddling on both lakes and mild rivers for adults and kids. This is a good first kayak.

Tough and durable construction - while still remaining lightweight and compact, this kayak is made of rugged super tough vinyl made stronger for durability. High visibility graphics allow others to see you easily.

Comfortable cockpit – features an inflatable seat with backrest designed for comfort with an inflatable seat and backrest for those long hours on the water. There is also a cargo net to easily store items.

This inflatable kayak is available from Amazon at a huge discount! Click here to take advantage of the savings!

Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Features and Specifications

Sporty graphics for high visibility
Low Profile design for lakes and mild rivers
Inflatable and adjustable seat with backrest
Big, comfortable cockpit for easy entry and exit
Inflatable I-Beam floor for comfort and rigidity
Responsive streamlined design for easy paddling
Rugged, tough vinyl construction
22 ga (0.56 mm) Thick PVC vinyl
Cargo net to store items
Grab line on both ends of kayak for easy carrying
Five separate air chambers
High output manual hand pump
U.S. Coast Guard ID, RWTUV approved
Repair patch included
Deluxe aluminum oars (84 inch/213 cm)
109″ Length
220 pound (100 kg) Capacity

What customers say about the Intex Challenger K1 Kayak

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

There were lots of great reviews for this inflatable kayak. For example this reviewer stated that it inflates and deflates in less than 5 minutes. Included pump works very well and excellent valves. Appears well built and designed. Good balance of weight vs strength. Handles very well. Tracks straight easily and still turns readily. Paddle is better than expected and certainly adequate. Carry case functional but I do not expect to be very durable.

Lots of reviewers felt this Kayak is a great value. The durable vinyl has held up to several lake trips and two day trips down the river. The Intex Challenger K1 is a great starter boat if you’re on a budget.

Another reviewer remarked that this kayak is great for just fun type kayaking, nothing too serious. I live on a big lake and so far it has been easy to get into and out of and paddle around in. Have not taken it out in any big waves or on a river. It blew up really fast and is not too heavy to carry about to get it to the water and back to storage. The paddle that comes with it is fine for what the kayak is intended for.

This reviewer said they saw this inflatable kayak on Amazon and showed my husband who told me not to get it because they would puncture easily and blow away or fill up with water quickly- he could not have been any more wrong. After purchasing two, we took them on their maiden voyage today and both of us were very surprised; they were easy and quick to inflate and navigated perfectly in the water. The material of the kayak is very thick and durable and I am in the process of having all of our friends purchase this item as well.

Click this link to purchase from Amazon

The Intex Challenger K1 Kayak is a good first kayak for fun on the water during the summer at a very affordable price.

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Date Published: Mar 12, 2012 - 8:39 am

Sun Protection While Kayaking

Whether you are paddling across a lake, the sea or along a whitewater course proper sun protection while kayaking is essential. And many kayakers are concerned about sunscreen products which have no or low impact on the environment.

Tips for Sun Protection While Kayaking

Sunscreen is the primary way to protect yourself from the sun
Use SPF 30 sunscreen or more, even on cloudy days
Reapply sunscreen every 3 or 4 hours, and apply lots
Do not forget to apply the sunscreen lotion to your ears because you will be changing direction on the water often leaving them exposed
Also consider using a syray for more complete coverage
Sun protection clothes are available to protect you from the harmful UVA-UVB rays. Wide brim sun protection hats and lightweight long sleeve shirts are worn by many kayakers.

Kayakers concerned about the environment often turn to organic sunscreen, although the benefits will vary from brand to brand.

Consider if purchasing Organic Sunscreen

Packaging – are the organic sunscreen bottles recyclable and include vegetable ink on the packaging.

Biodegradable – many sunscreens contain ingredients harmful to the environment. After applying sunscreen you may be going for a swim in the lake or river whether intentional or not. If your sunscreen is biodegradable and breaks down naturally it will be eco-friendly and a big help to the environment.

An organic product – contains ingredients that are grown organically and processed without the use of synthetic chemicals, pesticides or herbicides. Also they do not contain any genetically modified organisms.

Certified organic products – meanwhile these are organic sunscreen products which have been certified by an independent agency by having a set percentage of certified organic ingredients (generally greater than 95%). Some agencies include the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (Canadian Organic Regime; USDA (US Department of Agriculture); and IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture).

In particular avoid sunscreens which contain paraben, benzophenone, cinnamate and 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor. Do look for sunscreens containing contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

For sun protection while kayaking look for UVA-UVB protection, high water resistance and sunscreen that is great for children and adults with any type you buy, organic or not. One great sun protection product that also works for fair skinned people is Badger SPF 30 Sunscreen For Face & Body 2.9 oz (87 ml).

Be sure to check our some the great inflatable kayaks on this site to get started. Sun protection while kayaking should be part of your essential gear for the outdoors any time of the year.

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Date Published: Feb 06, 2012 - 8:43 am

Compare Best Kayaks

Displayed below is a chart displaying some of the best kayaks. Click on the links and check out these best kayaks.


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Title	Lifetime Manta Tandem Kayak with Paddles and Backrests (Yellow, 10-Feet)	Old Town Canoes and Kayaks 10 Vapor Recreational Kayak, Sunrise	KL Industries 10-Foot Water Quest Kayak with Paddle (Blue)	Emotion Spitfire Kayak, Red	Emotion Temptation Kayak, Yellow
Brand	Lifetime Products	Old Town Canoes & Kayaks	KL Industries	Emotion Kayaks	Emotion Kayaks
Feature	Designed for single or tandem use (2) 2-piece sport paddles included Fits up to 3 people Forward cargo area Tunnel hull design provides ultra stability and great tracking	Single-user kayak great for quiet water paddling on lakes, ponds, and slow moving rivers Made from highly durable single layer linear polyethylene Adjustable Comfort Flex padded seat for all day paddling comfort and a cockpit rim paddle-rest Comfortable thigh/knee pads and adjustable foot pegs for good fit and control Stern Day Well provides easy access to day-use items without storing them in the bilge of the boat	Deluxe padded seat Spray deflector collar Shock cord deck rigging Carry handles Deluxe adjustable seat Length: 10?, Width: 30?, Height: 13?, Weight: 40 lbs., Capacity: 250 lbs.	Built in fold down back rest Built in tank well with bungees for secure storage Paddle ledges with paddle keepers Molded beverage holder and drain holes No-bite molded in foot braces designed for comfort	Built in fold down back rest Large 10" bow hatch for dry storage Paddle ledges with paddle keepers Stable, fast, shallow V hull design "No-bite" molded in foot braces designed for comfort
ListPrice	$449.99	$399.99	$305.00	$.	$499.00
Price	$449.99	$399.95	$305.00	$363.84	$451.59
Weight	65 pound	65 pound	40 pound	0.1 pounds
Width	36 inch	36 inch	30 inch	28 inch
Length	102 inch	102 inch	120 inch	94 inch
Rating
Link	More Info	More Info	More Info	More Info	More Info

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Date Published: Feb 01, 2012 - 9:41 am

Canoeing in Europe

Ever thought about canoeing in Europe. A group of us were on a bicycle touring trip of the Dordogne River region of Southern France where we stopped for a few nights in Beynac. The Dordogne River is located just north of Toulouse and eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Bordeaux

While at our hotel in Beynac we saw an ad for a canoeing adventure on the Dordogne and decided to book as all six of us were canoeists. While we canoe and kayak a lot in Canada this was to be our first European canoe day trip.

We were picked up early the next morning by a van and taken a few kilometers upstream where our three canoes waited along a sandy shore. We were given lifejackets, paddles and a short safety lesson along with instructions on where to leave the river after our voyage.

And off we went into the fast current although it did slow in some of the wider section later along. Although we were in France surprisely we pasted some forested sections where there were lots of birds along sections of the shore.

We knew we were not in Canada when we paddled past vineyards stretching along the shores. Another thing we can’t do in Canada is pull up to the shore and park the canoes and head off into a nearby bar for a coffee and pastry on the outdoor patio.

About mid-way towering above us was Castelnaud, the English castle dating from the 100 years war. We visited this castle a few days later and as it sits atop a high hill it offers great views of the Dordogne river valley and town below. There are lots of exhibits showing life from the Middle Ages, in particular the catapults on display were amazing.

Our journey took us past the pretty village La Roque Gageac with its one street sandwiched between the river and a rocky cliff. The bend in the river here offered great photo opportunities of the stone houses of this village lining the river.

Next up was Beynac passing our hotel with the French castle of the same name also from the 100 years war. While a tough walk up a steep hill this fortress is also great to visit especially the dungeons. Part of the movie Chocolat was filmed in this town and there was another British film crew in town doing a movie during our visit.

After 2 ½ hours and eleven kilometers we arrived at the downstream pier to rendezvous with the van for the drive back to our hotel. On our many visits to Europe we have noticed many opportunities for canoeing or rafting in Austria, Germany and elsewhere.

While kayaking or canoeing in Europe may not be top of mind, consider it on your next vacation as Canoeing in Europe is a very different experience.

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Date Published: Jan 15, 2012 - 11:46 am

Emotion Glide Kayak Review

The Emotion Glide Kayak has earned quite a reputation with new kayakers and experienced folks alike. This kayak was designed with the beginner in mind, but it isn’t so simplistic that you’ll outgrow it any time soon.

Click here to purchase from Amazon today!

And since paddling is great exercise, you can get fit while you enjoy serene kayak trips on your favorite lake or river.

What is good about the Emotion Glide Kayak

Lightweight - measuring at just a shade under 10 feet in length (9’8”) and weighing just 37 pounds, this is a kayak for one or two kayakers that’s easy to transport to the water and carry around.

Easy handling – once you’re in the Emotion Glide Kayak, you’ll find that it is remarkably easy to control in both lakes and rivers. This kayak features a wide hull design with a slight “V” shape for great initial stability and added secondary stability for beginners and also aids in tracking and performance for more experienced paddlers.

Comfortable – includes many features that help you to enjoy a bit of comfort when you’re out on the water including a padded seat which is easy to adjust. There is an oversize cockpit for easy entry and exit of the kayak.

Durable – there are built-in foot braces to keep you stable and comfortable when the water is a bit choppy. The Emotion Glide Kayak is certainly not a high-end kayak for competitors or hardcore kayakers, but it is more than durable and comfortable enough for fun times on the lake with a friend.

This kayak is available from Amazon. Click here to check it out.

Emotion Glide Kayak Features and Specifications

The Emotion Glide Kayak is 9’8” in length and is built with a deck height of 14”
This kayak weighs in at 37 pounds, so it can be carried easily by one person
The seat is adjustable, padded for comfort and easy to fold down
Exterior handles make it easy to transport this kayak from your vehicle to the water
Built with ledge lock paddle keepers that will keep you from losing your paddles when they are not being used
Built with heavy duty foot braces that are easy to adjust for comfort and stability on the water
Weight capacity of 225 to 275 pounds

What customers say about the Emotion Glide Kayak

There were lots of positive reviews for this kayak. For example one reviewer stated the Glide tracks straight and true through the water. I use it on flat water and I have no problems of any kind paddling or steering this kayak. It does well when we get wind across the lake, I’ve never taken on any water or really gotten wet out on the lake. I enjoy every minute I’m using the Glide!

This reviewer mentioned he is 6’3″ and weighed around 260lbs when I purchased this last Christmas. I didn’t purchase it for weight-loss, but I do now weight under 240lbs and continue to enjoy kayaking in our local lake after work and during the weekends.

Bought as a gift for her husband this reviewer says he is 6′ 1″ and said he was extremely comfortable and the kayak was very responsive. The seat was perfect for his back (which is not perfect.) So much better than “those others.” We definitely recommend this model.

Lots of reviewers love this kayak. I’ve taken it out both in calm and heavy waters and it has performed really well. This particular kayak was right in the price range I was looking for and has held up extremely well after quite a few uses. I’ve been able to fit it into my SUV as well as tie it down to my roof depending on the situation. The seat is really comfortable and there’s plenty of legroom along with adjustable footrests. The back of the kayak has plenty of room for bags, drinks, life vest, etc. The kayak itself is very stable in the water and glides very straight if you are a good paddler.

Click this link to purchase from Amazon

With such high praise from real life kayakers, and the Emotion Kayaks reputation for making some of the best kayaks on the market, we wholeheartedly recommend the Emotion Glide Kayak to anyone looking for a fun way to get out and enjoy some exercise and leisure time on the waters of their favorite lakes or rivers.

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Date Published: Jan 05, 2012 - 11:15 am

Compare Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayaks

The Sea Eagle Inflatable Sport Kayak is at home whether you are padding yourself across a lake or an exciting run down a white water river. This inflatable kayak weights 26 pounds and holds two kayakers.

Sea Eagles has been making quality inflatable kayaks since 1968. Listed below is a comparison of the popular Sea Eagle model.


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Title	Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak with Deluxe Package	Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package	Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Kayak with Deluxe Package	Sea Eagle 330 Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package	Sea Eagle 380x Inflatable Kayak with Pro Package
Brand	Sea Eagle	Sea Eagle	Sea Eagle	Sea Eagle	Sea Eagle
Feature	Two-person inflatable kayak weighs just 26 pounds, but has 500-pound load capacity Constructed of puncture-resistant, extra-thick K-80 polykrylar hull material Nine-inch tubes, I-beam construction, and high-frequency welded seams; rated up to Class III whitewater Comes with inflatable spray skirts, inflatable front and rear seats, two oars, reliable foot pump, and carrying bag Includes limited three-year manufacturer's warranty	Lightweight and portable inflatable sport kayak NMMA Certified; inflates in 8 minutes Self-bailing drain valve 3 deluxe one-way valves Lashed-down inflatable spray skirts	Affordable inflatable sport kayak is lightweight and portable Holds 3 people up to 650 pounds in total weight Inflation and assembly time is only 8 minutes Weighs just 32 pounds; measures 12 feet, 6 inches by 2 feet, 10 inches	Inflatable kayak designed to hold up to two adults and their gear (500 pounds max) 33 mm polykrylar hull, I-beam construction, and high-frequency welded seams Safe for fishing, yacht tending, sky diving, and Class III whitewater rafting Inflatable spray skirts; includes two kayak seats, foot pump, and storage bag Measures 134 inches long and 34 inches wide; three-year warranty	Extra-tough inflatable kayak designed for two to three adults and gear (holds 750 pounds max) 1,000-denier, polyester-supported, high-pressure fabric resists all punctures Four extra-large, easily convertible drains work in both wet and dry conditions Integrated bow and stern spray skirts; two tall-back seats; foot pump Measures 150 inches long and 37 inches wide; three-year warranty
ListPrice	$399.99	$349.00	$299.00	$299.99	$1149.00
Price	$199.99	$299.00	$229.00	$249.00	$917.95
Height	6.5 inch	5 inch	7 inch	7 inch	0 inch
Weight	26 pound	50 pound	45 pound	12 pound	73 pounds
Width	17 inch	10 inch	17 inch	19 inch	0 inch
Length	24 inch	51 inch	24 inch	24 inch	0 inch
Link	More Info	More Info	More Info	More Info	More Info

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Date Published: Oct 27, 2011 - 12:59 pm

Joining A Kayak Club

Looking about a joining a kayak club? I belong to an outdoor recreation club that has had a canoeing program for years on local rivers each weekend. Although it is called a canoe trip the reality is that each year we have more and more kayaks in our flotilla.

If you are looking for a group of paddlers to go out on the river or lake with consider joining a kayak club in your area. This can be an outdoor recreation club, canoe club which offer kayak options or the local kayak club. Click here if you need some reviews of inflatable kayaks.

The Grand River is one river our club tackles and it is located about 1 ½ hours from Toronto. Most weekends the local conservation authority partially opens up the dam upstream so that the tourists can play in the rapids at a local park. Downstream where we are the higher water level is are noticed about the time we are launching and if it rained during the week the level can be expected to be even higher.

Although surrounded by farmland along the river itself all you see is the forested hills on either side along with plenty of birds as you paddle along. One side of the river also has a bike path but the cyclists cannot be seen amidst the trees.

This is a wide river always with a fast current and standing waves. The advantage for those with the inflatable kayaks is that there are plenty of rocks on this river the they just slide off. If the water levels are really high we tend to float over most of them (but never all of them). No so for the hard shell kayaks and canoes.

Every so often there are standing waves and we have to steer among the rocks which is tougher for those in the canoes. Last time out one of the canoes hit a rock and tipped. Already downstream we were able to retrieve the belonging that floated down in the current. Also this is a busy river so there are plenty of others in canoes, rafts and kayaks should anyone get into trouble.

I find it is always more fun to paddle (actually the current pulls us) as a group with others to talk with at our lunch stop along the river bank or when a bunch of us gather together on the river forming one big raft.

Wherever you live although you may kayak solo consider joining a club for a better experience. Another benefit of a group kayakers is that different people led the trips and I am frequently introduced to new rivers I most likely would not have traveled on. Even if you are fishing it is always better to have another kayak so they can take a picture when you catch that big fish.

The Grand River is just one of many where you can have a great day on the water and even more fun by joining a kayak club.

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Date Published: Oct 17, 2011 - 5:12 pm

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Summary: Best Inflatable Kayak