5 Best Kid Kayaks For Summer Camping
Introducing your kids to water recreation over the summer is a great way to spend time together, especially when it’s in kayaks.
Kayaking can be a fun and exciting way to stay cool and make memories. Learning to kayak at a young age can also help children establish a hobby they continue into adulthood.
Thankfully, we’ve found some kid kayaks designed to accommodate their smaller size and physical capabilities.
Let’s jump in!
Why Use A Kids Kayak?
Having the proper equipment in any situation makes for a more enjoyable experience. Standard kayaks can be difficult for kids to use, which can certainly lead to a frustrating experience.
In fact, kayaks are often large and heavy and can easily overwhelm a kid’s smaller stature. But a kids kayak will ensure a more successful day of adventuring. In addition to a more size-appropriate kayak body, the paddles are also more proportional for children.
The 5 Best Kayaks For Kids
It’s vital to have the proper equipment for a fun kayaking adventure. What options do you have when it comes to kid kayaks? Let’s take a look at a few of our top picks for kid kayaks.
#1 – Lifetime Wave Youth Kayak
Lifetime Wave Youth Kayak is only 18 pounds and is easy to transport in SUVs, vans, and trucks. This kid kayak is six feet long and 24 inches wide. The High-Density Polyethylene construction provides the necessary strength and durability to ensure it lasts a long time. In addition, this Lifetime Wave Youth Kayak features a tether at the front for easy parental towing. There’s also a five-year limited warranty.
This youth kayak will grow with your child. There are multiple footrest positions to help children of all heights be comfortable. The molded grips on each side assist with grip, giving kids the confidence they need. The back of the kayak is sloped, making it easy to renter the unit. Each kayak comes with a necessary paddle.
Age Rating: Five years and older. This kayak can hold up to 130 pounds.
Kid-Friendly Rating: 7/10. This kayak is great for younger kids but might be outgrown quickly for those over ten. Some reviews state that it sinks a little more than they’d prefer when their child uses it, even if the child is within the weight limit.
#2 – Perception Hi Five Kids Kayak
The Perception Hi Five is for children up to 120 pounds. It’s 6’6” long and 24 inches wide. This kayak weighs in at 21 pounds, which allows it to be sturdy but still lightweight. There’s a carrying handle making it easier to transport. You’ll also receive an included single paddle.
Kids will love this kayak due to its colorful design and versatility. They can use this product as a standard kayak, but the design also allows it to become a stand-up paddleboard. This multi-purpose function is great because it enables children to develop their aquatic skills even further. There’s also a swim-up deck to help kids climb back on top in the event they fall out.
Age Rating: This kayak works well for ages five to ten years old, depending on their size.
Kid-Friendly Rating: 9/10. This is an excellent kayak for children who want to experience both a kayak and paddleboard as it can serve as both.
#3 – Pelican Solo Youth Kayak
Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is for children up to 100 pounds. It’s six feet in length and 24 inches wide. This kid kayak weighs only 19 pounds, making it easy for even kids to carry and maneuver independently. There’s also a molded handle to help with transport out of the water. In addition, a 72” paddle comes with your purchase.
Kids will love the built-in bottle holder, which will allow them to bring their favorite drink along. This kayak features an easy-to-use swim-up deck to help kids regain access should they need to climb back in. This kayak is especially excellent for those who want to do some fishing as it’s meant more for stability versus speed.
Age Rating: This kayak is best for smaller children aged five to ten years old due to the 100-pound weight limit.
Kid-Friendly Rating: 8/10. This is an excellent beginner kid kayak as it provides fantastic stability. It’s also great for those who want to fish from their kayak.
#4 – Intex Challenger Kayak
For those looking for an inflatable kid kayak, the Intex Challenger Kayak is it. The weight limit is 220 pounds making it great for kids of all sizes, including many adults. The kayak is nine feet long and 30 inches wide, making it a fantastic option for those who want to be in the kayak with their kids. Your Intex Challenger Kayak purchase also includes a paddle.
This kayak is excellent for those that don’t have space for a traditional kayak. In addition, it inflates quickly with the included hand pump. The front cargo net helps keep items safe from the risk of falling into the water. The enclosed deck will help keep you or your kid dry while out kayaking.
Age Rating: This is an excellent choice for ages ten and up, including adults.
Kid-Friendly Rating: 7/10. This is a great kayak but may be too large for smaller children.
#5 – Sun Dolphin Journey Kayak
The Sun Dolphin Journey Kayak is a heavy-duty unit ready to get you on the water. Coming in at 10 feet long and with a weight limit of 250 pounds, this kayak will fit kids of all sizes and many adults. While this kayak is longer than many others, they still take pride in it being lightweight. You’ll also receive a paddle when purchasing the Sun Dolphin Journey Kayak.
The Sun Dolphin Journey Kayak is an excellent choice for those looking to find that hard-to-reach fishing spot. There are three fishing rod holders and a drink holder, which provides a great deal of convenience. The adjustable padded seating allows for a long day out on the water. The adjustable footrests help people of various heights feel comfortable.
Age Rating: All ages 12 and older, including adults.
Kid-Friendly Rating: 6/10. Younger kids will be overwhelmed by the size, making this a better option for older kids and adults.
Get the Kids Outside on Kayaks
A day out on the water is a great day regardless of age. And, purchasing a kayak for your child can help you spend hours bonding on the lake or river. Whether you’re fishing or paddling around, it’s sure to be a fun day. So set your kids up with their own kayaks and get outside!
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