Inflatable kayaks have really blown up (yep - we went there!) in recent years and you’ve probably seen more and more of them on Aussie beaches, rivers and campsites, but to someone who has never sat in one it can be hard to know if inflatable kayaks are actually any good.

You may be picturing the blow up kayak you got from Kmart when you were a kid - but let me tell you’ they’ve come a long way! The new breed of inflatable kayaks are extremely high tech, and once inflated you’d hardly even know it’s an inflatable!

In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of inflatable kayaks to help you determine if they are the right choice for your next adventure.

Are Inflatable Kayaks Any Good for Australian waterways?

Inflatable kayaks are a great choice for kayaking enthusiasts in Australia, offering a versatile and affordable option for exploring the country's beautiful waterways. With their compact and lightweight design, inflatable kayaks are easy to transport and store, making them a great option for those who want to take their kayaking adventures on the road.

Inflatable kayaks are also suitable for a wide range of water conditions, making them a great choice for exploring Australia's diverse waterways. From the calm inland waterways like Lake Mckenzie on Fraser Island, salt water estuaries and rivers, our many incredible beaches, inflatable kayaks are designed to provide a stable and comfortable kayaking experience, no matter what the conditions may be.

Another advantage of inflatable kayaks is their durability. Made from rugged and puncture-resistant materials, inflatable kayaks are built to withstand the harsh conditions of Australia's waterways, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable kayaking experience.

Inflatable kayaks also offer a comfortable and customizable kayaking experience, with features such as adjustable seats, multiple air chambers for added safety, and ample storage space for gear and supplies. This makes them a great choice for long-distance kayaking trips, fishing expeditions, and family outings on the water.

When deciding between an inflatable kayak and a hard-shell kayak, there are several factors to consider. To help you make an informed decision, here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of inflatable kayaks.

Pros:

Portability: One of the biggest benefits of inflatable kayaks is their portability. Unlike hard-shell kayaks, which can be difficult to transport and store, inflatable kayaks can be deflated and packed into a compact carrying bag for easy storage and transportation.

No need for roof racks or trailers, inflatable kayaks fold down into a backpack that can be easily thrown into the back of your car and transported to just about anywhere!

Affordability: Inflatable kayaks are often less expensive than traditional hard-shell kayaks, making them a great choice for those on a budget or for those who are new to kayaking and aren't sure if they want to invest a lot of money into the sport.

Easy to set up and use: Inflatable kayaks are also very easy to set up and use. Unlike traditional hard-shell kayaks, which can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, inflatable kayaks can be inflated in just a few minutes and are lightweight and easy to handle.

Cons:

Durability in extreme conditions: Although modern inflatable kayaks are designed to be extremely durable and reliable, they will not be as tough as traditional hard-shell kayaks and may be more susceptible to damage from sharp rocks or oysters - However, modern inflatable kayaks are designed to be safe and reliable, with multiple air chambers that help ensure that if one chamber fails, the others can still keep you afloat.

it’s important to check the surrounding area when launching your kayak to make sure there are no sharp objects.

Less mounting options: Like any boat, kayakers have been adding more and more accessories to their kayaks such as rod holders, fish finders and coolers. WIth a hard shell kayak you can simply drill into the hard shell - but look for an inflatable kayak that already has the accessories you want. Some will come with rod holders, and manufactured mounting points to add accessories such as fish finders, scotty rod holders etc.

Are Inflatable Kayaks Safe?

Inflatable kayaks are safe, as long as they are used properly and in appropriate water conditions. Modern inflatable kayaks are designed to be durable and reliable, with multiple air chambers that help ensure that if one chamber fails, the others can still keep you afloat. However, it's important to be mindful of the conditions you are kayaking in and to take steps to protect your kayak from sharp objects like oysters that could cause punctures.

Do Inflatable Kayaks Pop Easily?

Inflatable kayaks are less likely to pop if you use them in calm waters and avoid sharp objects. However, if you are kayaking in rapids or rocky waters, your kayak may be more susceptible to punctures. In this case, it's important to take steps to protect your kayak and to be mindful of the conditions you are kayaking in.

Can You Fish from an Inflatable Kayak?

Fishing from an inflatable kayak can be a great way to enjoy the sport and get out on the water. Inflatable kayaks are often more portable and easier to transport than traditional hard-shell kayaks, making them a great option for those who want to take their fishing trips to new and remote locations.

Many inflatable kayaks are designed specifically for fishing, with features such as adjustable seats, rod holders, and plenty of storage space for fishing gear. This makes it easy to get set up and comfortable for a day of fishing on the water.

Inflatable kayaks also offer a stable platform for fishing, which is especially important when you're trying to reel in a big catch. Inflatable kayaks are designed to be stable and easy to handle, making them a great option for fishing on any waterway..

Can You Use Inflatable Kayaks in the Ocean?

Inflatable kayaks are a great option for exploring our ocean beaches and esturies, as they are lightweight, portable, and easy to manoeuvre in different water conditions. However, it's important to choose an inflatable kayak that is specifically designed for use in the ocean, as this will ensure that it is made from durable materials and has the necessary features for safe and comfortable ocean kayaking.

When choosing an inflatable kayak for ocean use, make sure to choose an inflatable kayak that is appropriate for the conditions you will be kayaking in, and always take steps to ensure your safety while you're on the water.

In conclusion, inflatable kayaks are a versatile, portable, and affordable option for kayaking enthusiasts of all levels, whether you're fishing or exploring the ocean. With the right features and design, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable kayaking experience on any body of water.

At Adventure Warehouse, we offer a wide range of high-quality inflatable kayaks that are perfect for fishing and ocean kayaking. Our kayaks are designed with safety and comfort in mind, and are made from durable materials that can withstand the harshest conditions.

So why wait? Head over to Adventure Warehouse today and see our range of inflatable kayaks for yourself. Whether you're looking for a new kayak for your next fishing trip, or you're interested in exploring the ocean from the comfort of your kayak, we have the perfect inflatable kayak for you.

Take the first step towards your next adventure today, and visit Adventure Warehouse to see our range of inflatable kayaks.