Best kayaks for seniors

Top 10 Best Kayaks for Seniors in 2022

One of the best things about kayaking is its lifelong pursuit. No matter how old you get, you can start your kayaking journey without any particular expertise. However, the type of kayak for seniors vastly differs from that for younger kayakers. Therefore, if you want to kayak comfortably as a senior, you need to be extra careful about your kayak purchase.

Several brands on the market can make your purchase decision overwhelming. So, below I have narrowed down the best kayaks for seniors equipped with a feature set any older kayaker should look for. So, without further ado, let’s see what these kayaks offer.

How to buy the best kayak for seniors?

Kayaks for seniors must have some special quality compared to your regular adult kayaks. So, if you want the best kayak for seniors, you need to know what those qualities are and how you can ensure those in a kayak.

Kayak type

You first need to determine what type of kayak you want. Typically, both sit on top and sit kayaks have their pros and cons. The same goes for hard shell kayaks and inflatable kayaks. Inflatable kayaks are the easiest to transport, a big plus for seniors. But inflatable kayaks are lacking in the durability department.

On the other hand, rigid kayaks are way more durable, balanced, and easy to maneuver. But they are also pretty heavy to transport and store, which is a drawback for many people.

As for the sit-on-top kayaks, it’s less protective against water and easier to get in and out. On the other hand, sitting in kayaks will protect you from water, but getting in and out will be tricky.

Comfort

Kayaking is a lengthy activity on the water. So, to make your experience enjoyable on the water, you need to ensure comfort. Therefore, factors like the kayak length and adjustability come into play to determine comfort.

An ideal length will ensure that your leg stays in a comfortable position throughout your kayaking session. On the other hand, adjustable seats and backrests ensure you have excellent support.

Storage capacity

Kayaks are used for fishing, excursions, or just roaming around on your nearby lake. For whatever purpose you use the kayak, you’ll need plenty of storage to carry necessary stuff like fishing gear, food, entertainment equipment, and many more. So you must ensure your kayaks have ample storage and bungee cargo holds to accommodate necessary items.

Weight Capacity

Maximum weight capacity is another important aspect of the best kayaks for seniors. Every kayak has a maximum weight capacity set by its manufacturers. So, if you carry more than that weight, your kayak will be prone to tipping over. Therefore, before purchasing a kayak, you need to calculate what you plan to carry with you on your kayaking expedition. Then, according to the weight of your necessary items, you need to purchase a kayak to hold that weight.

Maneuverability and stability

These two factors will heavily impact your kayaking experience. Given the shape, weight load, and type, a kayak’s maneuverability and stability can differ. But as a senior, you need to ensure the kayak you purchase is easy to maneuver and stable. Otherwise, it’ll be very challenging to turn and paddle the kayak. Typically, kayaks with long and wide hulls have ten to be more durable and maneuverable.

Storage and portability

The storage solution and the portability might not make any difference for most kayakers, but they do for seniors. A portable kayak with a carrying bag makes it easy to carry on your bike or your back. Besides, these portable kayaks are mostly foldable, making them easy to store in a bag and protect from external damage.

Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak

Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak

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Oru kayaks have made a name for themselves with some of the best kayaks for seniors on the market. If you don’t have any problems with your budget, this premium quality kayak from Oru will fulfill your every need as a senior.

My Impression

Right out of the box, the Oru kayak gives a premium feel. The kayak comes in a square-shaped box, which makes storing and carrying this kayak utterly convenient. Even if you are a beginner with kayaks, you can get the kayak on the water within a few minutes.

Oru used custom polypropylene for this highly durable kayak. Combined with rust resultant hardware, this kayak is made to serve you for years. As a senior, the right posture is very important for kayakers. Therefore, Oru has included an adjustable footrest and backrest so that any rider can fit on the kayak irrespective the height.

Highlight features

  • 12-month warranty & 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Durable polypropylene build
  • Adjustable backrest and footrest
  • Origami-inspired foldable design

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Easy to carry
  • Lightweight construction
  • Enough room to carry fishing gears
  • UV protection
Cons
  • The kayak is a little smaller for some
  • Assembly can be challenging

 

Explorer K2 Kayak

Explore K2 Kayak

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Kayaking is fun, but to double down the fun with your partner, I have brought the K2 inflatable kayak. It has space for two people, it’s inflatable, affordable, and pretty much everything a regular kayaker will look for in a kayak.

My Impression

Given the super affordable price tag, my expectations were quite low. However, the K2 kayak managed to impress me right off the bat with the polypropylene build. The seats and backrests are inflatable too, which helps the kayak become more lightweight. This adjustability and 400 lbs. of max carrying capacity ensure this kayak can easily have two people with the necessary gears.

The compact size and lightweight design are not the most suitable choice if you plan to kayak on busy water. However, it’s one of the best inflatable kayaks for seniors for weekend kayaking on your nearby lake and river.

Highlight Features

  • Pump and paddles included
  • 400 lbs. max carrying capacity
  • Removable skeg for better direction
  • Three separate air chambers

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Easy to carry
  • Durable puncture resistant build
  • Quick inflation and deflation
Cons
  • The inflation valves need improvement
  • The paddles are a little short

 

Sevylor Quikpak K1

Sevylor Quikpak K1

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Sevylor brings the perfect treat for kayakers looking for a lightweight and maneuverable kayak at a lower budget. If you want to start kayaking as a senior without breaking the bank, the Sevylor k1 is one of the best lightweight kayaks for seniors.

My Impression

Right out of the boy, I loved the high-quality carrying bag. Thanks to this bag, you can easily carry the kayak on your back while hiking or biking. The kayak is made of polyester, another lightweight yet durable material commonly used for kayaks. The polyester build makes the kayak UV resistant and durable for extensive use.

There are multiple air chambers on this kayak, which means the kayak can comfortably float even if one chamber gets punctured. Unfortunately, the seat and backrest are not adjustable, which can be a deal breaker for some customers. However, Sevylor K1 is still an excellent deal with the pump included and easy setup.

Highlight Features

  • 21 gauge PVC build
  • Tarpaulin bottom to prevent puncture
  • Multiple air chambers to prevent accidental sinking
  • 5-minute setup

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Air pump included
  • High-quality carrying bag
  • Double lock valve for easy inflation and deflation
  • US Coast Guard approved
Cons
  • The seat and backrest are not adjustable
  • The paddles seem a bit flimsy

 

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Ultralite Inflatable Kayak

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Ultralite Inflatable Kayak

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Advanced Elements is not your regular budget-friendly kayak manufacturer. However, if you want to start your kayaking journey with the best experience possible, AdvanceFrame Ultralite inflatable kayak might be an ideal choice.

My Impression

AdvanceFrame Ultralite looks and feels amazing right out of the box. Advanced elements have paid special attention to the build quality with a three-layer construction and aluminum frame. This durable construction ensures the kayak is ready for busy water. Despite the aluminum frame, the kayak is one of the best lightweight kayaks for seniors at 17 lbs.

The lightweight construction paired with the duffle carry bag makes the kayak easy to carry around. The kayak comes preassembled from the factory, and the rest of the assembly can be easily done with the user manual. The addition of a repair was really impressive considering its usefulness.

Highlight features

  • 3 layered construction
  • The kayak weighs only 17 lbs.
  • Aluminum frame to withstand extensive use
  • Supportive high back seat

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Duffel bag and repair kit included
  • Easy to assemble
  • Bungee laces to carry stuff
Cons
  • The seat is not adjustable
  • No air pump is included

 

Perception Rambler Sit on Top Tandem Kayak

Perception Rambler 13.5

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This time we have the first sit-on-top kayak on the list from Perception. Sit-on-top kayaks are well known for their stability and easy riding. However, Perception has added a few innovative touches that make the Rambler kayak one of the best for senior citizens.

My Impression

First, let me clear out that this is not your regular easy-to-carry kayak, which can be a bummer for some senior citizens. However, if you can carry the Rambler out at the back or top of your car and get it on the water, you’ll love the experience of one of the best sit-on-top kayaks for seniors from Perception.

The kayak is sturdy enough with a weight of massive 78 lbs. However, this weight allows the kayak to float on busy water or even the ocean easily. There is plenty of storage at both ends of the kayak. A molded single seat is in the middle if you want to carry a pet or kid. The padded seat and backrest are adjustable, which should be relieved if you have problems with posture.

Highlight feature

  • Sturdy polyethylene build
  • Seat for kids and pets
  • Adjustable set and backrest

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Easy to get on and off
  • Usable on ocean
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Multiple hands for convenient transport
Cons
  • No paddle included
  • The excessive weight can be a deal breaker

 

BKC FK285 9.1′ Sit On Top Single Fishing Kayak

BKC FK285 9.1'

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BKC might not be the most talked about kayak manufacturer out there. However, the BKC FK285 has the perfect balance of price and performance that’ll surely satisfy your kayaking needs. Moreover, some unconventional features separate it from the rest of the competitors.

My Impression

Like the previous Perception kayak, this one is not your regular portable kayak. However, if you can put the kayak on the water once, you are definitely in for a treat. BKC FK285 features a durable polyethylene build that makes it extremely puncture-resistant and durable. Even after being a solo kayak, the 350 lbs. This carrying makes the BKC FK 285 one of the best kayaks for senior citizens, allowing the rider to carry all the necessary gear worldwide.

The plethora of accessories is the unconventional yet attractive aspect of BKC FK285. The kayak features an ergonomic seat, paddle, watertight hatches, bungee cargo hold, and rod holders. All in all, these accusers make BLC FK 285 a comfortable and efficient kayak for seniors.

Highlight features

  • 350 lbs. carrying capacity
  • Built-in fishing rod holders
  • Watertight hatches
  • Bungee corded cargo holder

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Loads of accessories
  • Stable on busy water
  • Plenty of storage area
Cons
  • The seat can be uncomfortable
  • The bungee cargo hold isn’t very durable

 

Intex Challenger Kayak

Intex Challenger Kayak

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If you are worried about the cost of kayaking, Intex challenger brings you the perfect opportunity to start your journey for under $100. Even with this lower price, Intex has managed to impress beginner kayakers with thousands of good reviews under its belt.

My Impression

First of all, I love the green-blur color combination of Intex Challenger. If you are a woman worried about the look, Intex Challenger is one of the best kayas for senior women. After the initial look, Intex challenger continues to impress with the plastic build and puncture-resistant construction. Instead of a flat, inflatable floor, the I-beam design adds an extra layer of rigidity to the kayak.

Intex Challenger comes in different variants; you can choose to get a double or single seater according to your need. There are options to purchase the kayak with or without a pump too. A maximum weight capacity of 100 kg should provide ample opportunity to carry all your necessary fishing gear. Even if one side of your kayak gets punctured, two separate air chambers will allow the kayak to stay afloat.

Highlight features

  • Available in different seating arrangements and accessories
  • Weight capacity of 100 kg
  • ABYC standard certified
  • Two air chamber

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • I-beam floor for extra rigidity
  • Boston valve allows quick inflation and deflation
  • Puncture-resistant plastic build
  • Removable skeg for easier direction
Cons
  • The cockpit is not deep enough
  • Lacks back support

 

Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak

Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak

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A perfect mid-budget kayak didn’t exist until I came across this sit-on-top kayak from Pelican. The ideal balance of affordability and performance is hard to maintain, and Pelican has done it flawlessly.

My Impression

The first thing I noticed about the Pelican kayak was the weight. At 42 pounds, this is nowhere near a portable kayak. However, the more durable plastic construction and other necessary accessories make the weight worth carrying. Extended storage is one of the highlights of this kayak.

The affront storage platform and tank equipped with bungee cords allow you to carry all your necessary fishing gear. In addition, the removable EXOSHELL storage will enable you to pack essential items from home. The maximum weight capacity of 275 lbs. is impressive for a single kayak. The seat is adjustable and provides excellent back support for hours of kayaking.

Highlight Features

  • A maximum carrying capacity of 275 lbs.
  • ABYC certified
  • Removable Exoshell storage
  • Multi-layer polyethylene construction

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Ample storage
  • Easy maneuverability and agile
  • Multi-arched hull for challenging water
  • Adjustable ERGOLOUNGE seat
Cons
  • Lacks stability
  • It might feel Shorter for some rider

 

Sea Eagle 3-Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak

Sea Eagle 3-Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak

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Sea Eagle is a very popular kayak manufacturer among budget-friendly kayakers. This time, they have done it again with their portable sports kayak with excellent pricing and innovation from the manufacturer.

My Impression

This Sea Eagle kayak is about getting the basics right by making the best fishing kayak for seniors. Sea Eagles didn’t try anything fancy or extraordinary with this kayak. The kayak has a white and blue color with synthetic construction. If you carry tons of fishing gear, your max carrying capacity of 650 lbs. will be handy.

Even with the lower price tag, Sea Eagle included a carrying bag and an air pump with the kayak, which is appreciated. In addition, there are 5 deluxe valves to ensure you can quickly inflate or deflate a kayak. Finally, the high-quality paddles and the skegs make the kayak fast and easily maneuverable on water.

Highlight Features

  • High-quality aluminum paddles
  • 650 lbs. carrying capacity
  • Rear skegs for better tracking
  • Features 5-tube I-Beam floor

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Air pump and carrying bag included
  • Easy to inflate and deflate
  • Excellent control and maneuverability
Cons
  • Tracing is affected by one person

 

Lifetime Tamarack Pro 103 Sit-On-Top Kayak

Lifetime Tamarack Pro 103

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The last option on the list is a hidden gem I came across during the research. I was optimistic at first, given the unfamiliarity with the manufacturer. However, this kayak managed to impress me once I got my hands on it.

My Impression

This kayak can be your perfect fishing companion, given its stability and durability. Lifetime has worked extensively to add a dep hull channel and chine rails, resulting in enhanced tracking and stability. At both ends, there are bungee cords to secure small fishing gears.

The built-in fishing rod holders make Lifetime Tamarack the perfect option for fishing lovers. For long hours of fishing, adjustable seats will be a great help. The main storage system is in the middle of the kayak, where you can store all your primary fishing gear.

Highlight Features

  • It has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs.
  • Built-in fishing rod holder
  • Adjustable seats and footrest
  • Bungee cords at both ends

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Excellent stability and tracing
  • Huge storage options
  • Good value for money
Cons
  • Heavy for one person to carry
  • Footrests aren’t comfortable

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is kayaking good for older adults?

As I said before, kayaking has no age limit. So, there is no perfect time to start kayaking. However, even older adults can buy kayaks and start kayaking anytime. On top of the enjoyment, kayaking brings health benefits like improving aerobic fitness and the strength of different body parts.

What is the easiest way to get in and out of a kayak?

Getting in or out of a kayak can be tricky. However, you can quickly get it done if you follow the right technique. First, start by positioning yourself at a lower docking position and the kayak parallel to you. Then sit with your feet in the kayak. Getting out of the kayak is just the reverse process. Next, slowly stand up, and pick up your legs from the kayak to the dock.

What is the easiest kayak to use?

Assuming you are a beginner, a sit-on-top kayak is the easiest. There are several benefits, including lightweight, stability, and most importantly, sit-on-top kayaks that are easy to get in and out of.

What is the most comfortable kayak to sit in?

Seat comfortability widely varies depending on the kayaker’s posture and back support requirement. However, if we look at the vast majority, kayaks with deluxe sits and padding seem to be the most comfortable kayak to sit in. Moreover, having adjustability and back support is another plus for comfortability.

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Final Words

That’s a wrap for today. I hope my article was helpful enough to point you toward the best kayaks for seniors. Although kayaking has no age limit,  challenges seem to arise with age. If you don’t have the right kayak to accompany you as a senior, the experience might get uncomfortable and utterly discouraging.

So, if you plan to get into kayaking late, make sure your kayak is easy to carry around and maneuver. You’ll find a favorable option on this list regardless of your budget or preferred kayak type. Once you get the right kayak, you’ll love the outdoor enjoyment kayaking has to offer, even for seniors.

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