Inflatable Kayak Manufacturers - Compare and Review

If you are in the market for an inflatable kayak it is wise to do a little research on the different manufacturers before you purchase. Inflatable kayaks have come a long way over the years and they are no longer considered ‘pool toys’. There are certain inflatable kayak brands that are high quality, extremely rugged and well made boats that with a little care will last a lifetime and provide great performance. Knowing a little bit about each kayak brand can help you to make a well informed decision.

Inflatable Kayak Manufacturers:

Advanced Elements - One of the most popular brand names on the market for mid-range priced inflatable kayaks. Their kayaks are known for being great quality and suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. They are popular because they are affordable, nice looking and well made inflatables. They offer a model that will suit every need and lifestyle.

Aire - Known as one of the absolute best manufacturers of inflatable kayaks, Aire has a reputation for excellence and a 10 year warranty on most of their kayaks to back them up. The Aire company has been around for more than two decades and they make mostly whitewater kayaks that are known for awesome performance. Many kayakers won’t even use an inflatable unless it is an Aire kayak.

Airis - Not as well known as many other brands but are quickly making their way up in the inflatable kayak world. Airis is owned by Walker Bay which is a marine company that is known for making extremely high quality marine boats. They got into constructing inflatable kayaks and the reality is that quality wise, there is no other inflatable kayak company that can touch them. They are heads above the rest and are already gaining in popularity.

Innova - Innova kayaks are European made and are very well constructed. They have quite a large selection of inflatable kayaks from mid range to elite. They are making huge breakthroughs with constructing inflatable kayaks without the use of PVC (which is harmful to the environment). Some of the Innova kayaks are used for search and rescue over on the West Coast of Vancouver Island by the Canadian Ranger Kayak Patrol. They are excellent quality and most are quite affordable.

NRS - NRS kayaks were founded over 30 years ago and are a very well known name in whitewater inflatable kayaks. They were founded by a man who was extremely passionate about whitewater kayaking and it shows in the excellence of his business and the quality of his boats. NRS kayaks are built for every type of paddler and tend to not be overpriced.

Sea Eagle - Sea Eagle has been manufacturing inflatable boats for over 40 years. This company is as solid as the boats they manufacture. There are a couple of great things about Sea Eagle kayaks. They offer versatility, they are unbelievably tough, they come with a great warranty and a 100% guarantee and they are priced so that everyone can afford them. Sea Eagle is probably the most popular of any other inflatable kayak manufacturer out there.

Tributary - Tributary is owned by Aire Kayaks. Their Tributary line is manufactured overseas as opposed to in the U.S. like the Aire line. They are consequently lower priced and not as great of quality. However they are still constructed very well and are more than excellent for most recreational kayakers. Tributary offers a more affordable option than the Aire kayaks and with still the great design and performance.

Bic, Coleman, Sevylor - These are the cheaper brands of inflatable kayaks. They are mostly manufactured in China and the quality is nowhere near the other manufacturers listed above. However they can still crank out some decent inflatables that may be good for lazy days on the lake. I wouldn’t personally recommend these brands though they are making huge improvements as the years go by and they are quite popular with first time users.

Final Thoughts on Inflatable Kayak Manufacturers

Now that you know a little more about each manufacturer it is up to you to decide what kind of inflatable kayak you want and how much you are willing to pay for it. There are lots of options available and the quality of inflatable kayaks will likely pleasantly surprise even the most stubborn of hard-shelled kayakers. With great warranties and rock solid construction, many of the manufacturers listed above will likely be around for decades to come.