Lightweight Kayaks for Seniors [Best Watersports Gear]

Are you looking for the best lightweight kayaks for seniors that won’t break the bank? If so, look no further because I’ve got some great recommendations for kayak paddles from top brands like Explorer, Oru, Intex, Driftsun, Elkton Outdoors etc. They’re durable, affordable and offer excellent value.

Kayaking has always been considered a fun outdoor sport for families and friends. For years, it was thought to be only suitable for those who are older or physically fit.

In order to stay safe on the water, we’ll go over the fifteen best lightweight kayaks for adults.

Top 3 Picks For Seniors

Preview
Best Overall
Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak Inlet | Stable, Durable, Lightweight - Lake and River Kayaks - Beginner, Intermediate - Size (Unfolded): 9'8" x 31", Weight: 20 Lbs
Best Value
Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak - 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak, Includes 2 Aluminum Paddles, 2 Padded Seats, Double Action Pump and Travel Backpack
Best Price
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Title
Oru Inlet
Driftsun Voyager
Explorer K2
Price
$916.99
$499.99
$143.28
Best Overall
Preview
Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak Inlet | Stable, Durable, Lightweight - Lake and River Kayaks - Beginner, Intermediate - Size (Unfolded): 9'8" x 31", Weight: 20 Lbs
Title
Oru Inlet
Price
$916.99
Where we can get
Best Value
Preview
Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak - 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak, Includes 2 Aluminum Paddles, 2 Padded Seats, Double Action Pump and Travel Backpack
Title
Driftsun Voyager
Price
$499.99
Where we can get
Best Price
Preview
Intex Explorer K2 2 Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Comfortable Backrest, Aluminum Oars, and High Output Air Pump for Fast Inflation, Yellow
Title
Explorer K2
Price
$143.28
Where we can get

The 15 Best Lightweight Kayaks for Seniors

1. Oru Inlet Foldable Lightweight Kayak

The Oru Inlet is a great lightweight kayak for seniors that is rated at 20,000 folds and exceeds U.S. Coast Guard recreational vessel requirements. Oru Inlet is the most portable folding kayak on the market that is only 20 pounds. And can be carried by one person, so it’s easy to take this kayak anywhere you want. The construction of this lightweight boat takes just under 5 minutes. Allowing you to get out on the water quickly without having to wait around.

The sleek design and durability make this one of our favorite choices for anyone looking for a new way to get outside!

Each Oru Kayaks undergo extensive strength and durability testing before they’re shipped out of their factory in China. They even offer a full 12-month warranty & 30-day money back guarantee! No roof rack required – just slide it into place with ease!

2. Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Kayak for adults

The Driftsun Voyager 2 is a lightweight tandem kayak that’s easy to carry and transport. It weighs only 27 pounds, making it ideal for beginners. And seniors who want an inflatable boat that’s easy to transport.

It inflates quickly using the included deluxe high flow double action hand pump. That makes it easy for you to get back on the water in less than 5 minutes after inflation! The inflatable kayak also comes with a storage capacity of 10 liters (2x5liters). For added protection against punctures or leaking this kayak comes with a tough 840D. And coated nylon oxford fabric bottom providing superior performance in any condition!

The Kayak has comfortable cruising thanks its super thick padded seats. Featuring premium EVA foam inserts for maximum comfort. The heavy duty PVC Tarpaulin bottom providing durable protection from punctures. Or leaks along every inch of this boat’s hull including stern entry area where users will sit comfortably during their trip down river or ocean side excursions.

3. Explorer K2 Lightweight Kayak For Seniors – Best Price

The Explorer K2 is a great choice for seniors who want to enjoy the water but don’t want to carry around a lot of extra weight. It’s designed with a capacity of two people and weighs only 35 pounds, making it easy for anyone to transport.

Explorer K2 comes in yellow, which makes it visible from long distances away in shallow waters. This kayak also has increased visibility thanks to its bright yellow color on the sides and back deck respectively.

They offers an inflatable pad system that helps keep you comfortable during your trip out onto the lake or river. The removable SKEG system helps provide directional stability when paddling forward or backward by maintaining pressure against your body. So you won’t get tossed around by waves or currents while exploring new areas!

4. ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Ultralite Inflatable Kayak

The AdvancedFrame Ultralite is an extremely comfortable, lightweight inflatable kayak with a built-in aluminum rib-frame design. It weighs only 17.5 pounds and can easily be carried by one person or two people. The simple inflation chamber design combined with lightweight material makes this kayak one of the most compact on our list as well.

Its simple setup process allows you to quickly unfold, inflate and attach the seat before paddling away! You’ll also enjoy being able to adjust your seat position at any time while paddling. Because there are three layers of material for extreme puncture resistance. Making it tough enough to handle whatever life throws at them (even if they do get wet).

The bungee deck lacing on both sides allows you to tie up any gear securely. That would affect how well they move through water when paddling down rivers or lakeside shores.

 5. Pelican – Maxim 100X Recreational Lightweight One Person Kayak

The Pelican Maxim 100X is an exceptional choice for seniors and beginners alike. Made with durable high molecular density polyethylene. This kayak weighs only 36 pounds and is lightweight enough to be easily stored. It’s designed for seniors, beginners and it’s suitable for lakes, ponds or small rivers.

It holds up to 275 pounds of maximum capacity so you can bring along your friends or family. This kayak is stable enough that you don’t need much effort while paddling but comfortable enough. It comes with a seat pad that makes getting into big water easy. Because there aren’t any waves when getting in; just sit down comfortably without worrying about falling over backwards!

6. Sevylor Quikpak K5 1-Person Lightweight Kayak

The Sevylor Quikpak K5 is a great choice for seniors who want to get out on the water. But don’t have the upper body strength necessary to handle other types of boats. This kayak weighs only 25.5 pounds and comes with an easy-to-carry backpack system that turns into the seat when you unfold it.

The 24 gauge PVC construction provides exceptional durability while still being light enough for easy transport and storage. This model features multiple air chambers in its double lock valves. That allow you to adjust both buoyancy and tracking depending on your preferences. Or conditions at hand; spray covers block splashes from entering your boat. The secure storage areas have D-Rings so they can be attached easily elsewhere on your boa. The spray covers block splashes from entering into your boat’s interior area; secure storage areas include two lock points per side with two non-return valves per side. Finally, there’s an air assist system that inflates these boats within seconds!

7. ADVANCED ELEMENTS Lagoon 1 Lightweight Kayak

The Lagoon 1 is an advanced lightweight kayak that weighs only 23 pounds, making it the perfect choice for seniors who don’t have time to set up and take down their boats. This kayak can be set up in less than five minutes and can hold up to 250 pounds of weight.

The built-in rigid panels provide increased durability as well as improved versatility for your use patterns. On top of this, its hull design allows for comfortable paddling even if you’re wearing bulky clothing.

The inner tube cover adds stiffness and abrasion protection so you won’t have to worry about scratches. In addition, it also has a durable PVC bottom shape that works well with most terrain types when used properly.

Finally, not only does each component weigh less than five pounds individually; they’re all included within one package. So there’s no need to worry about extra costs aside from shipping costs when buying online through Amazon Prime today!

8. Aquaglide 110 Deschutes Inflatable Lightweight Kayak

The Aquaglide 110 is a lightweight, compact kayak that’s designed to be effortless to paddle. This kayak provides portability, ease of transport and storage space in your garage or storage unit. It comes with quick release seats for easy adjustment when you want to change seats on the go. You can also adjust the foot rests and velcro adjustments for comfort while paddling.

The Aquaglide 110 features two valves so you can drain water from inside if necessary. But it’s not included since most people don’t use them anyway! There are no holes in this model either. That makes it perfect for those who have back problems. Because there will always be no leaks due to these factors alone!

9. Pelican – Argo 100X Lightweight Kayak For Adults

The Pelican – Argo 100X is an ideal choice for seniors who want to get out on the watersports. This compact, lightweight kayak can hold up to 275 pounds and comes with a seating capacity of one person. The twin-arched multi-chine hull provides great stability, making it safe for use by all ages and abilities. The Argo 100X is constructed out of an exceptionally durable high molecular weight polyethylene. That resists impact damage so it lasts longer than other types of plastic kayaks on the market today.

The ARGO 100X also offers plenty of storage space thanks to its integrated front hatch and rear hatch storage compartments. That come standard with every model; each holds up to two full gallons (18 liters) of water! It also features two rod holders near each seat as well as bungee cords at both ends. So you can attach additional gear if needed without removing them from your boat until needed again later on down river.

10. Sevylor Quikpak K1 Lightweight Kayak

The Sevylor Quikpak K1 is the perfect choice for seniors who want to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities without having to worry about heavy loads.

The lightweight kayak weighs only 20.28 pounds. So it’s easy to carry around with its sturdy backpack system and easy-to-carry handles. It also comes with a tarpaulin bottom that provides durable protection against harsh conditions such as rocks and sand bars. That ensure you have a safe ride no matter where your adventure takes you!

This kayak includes multiple air chambers that provide additional buoyancy when needed. That making it great for fishing or paddling around lakes. The double lock valves create an easy seal between each chamber, preventing leaks while also helping keep water out if needed. They’re also easy enough for anyone at any age! Plus, there’s even an integrated multi-position foot rest. So everyone can rest comfortably during long trips without worrying about falling overboard. This feature was designed especially for those who may struggle lifting themselves up onto seats in other boats.

11. Intex Excursion Pro Lightweight Kayak for Adults

The Intex Excursion Pro is a versatile, lightweight kayak that’s suitable for all ages. It has a comfortable seating position and includes two removable foot rests. That makes it easy to get in or out of the water. This boat also comes with integrated recessed fishing rod holders and two adjustable bucket seats on either side of the cockpit area.

The Excursion Pro includes high pressure inflation valves for fast inflation and deflation, as well as 2 removable skegs. In addition to its durability, this boat is super lightweight at just 46 pounds! This means you’ll be able to transport it easily from one place to another without having any trouble.

12. BKC FK285 On Top Single Fishing Kayak For Adults

BKC FK285 is the perfect choice for outdoor fun. It weighs 44 pounds, has a carrying capacity of 350 pounds, and inflates quickly. The fully loaded kayak can hold up to three people plus gear if you add an additional seat cushion or two-person rod holders.

BKC FK285 features a crafted stability that allows it to stand upright on its own when not being paddled with ease. Even in choppy waters like ocean surf or wakes from passing boats. It also features built-in fishing rod holders which allow you to store your rods. You won’t have any problems finding places to set up camp if this kayak becomes your home away from home. Because there are two watertight storage hatches built into its hulls which provide plenty of storage space for whatever items might need carrying around.

13. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead inflatable fishing kayak is an excellent choice for those who want to get back out on the water but don’t want to break the bank. This kayak has a weight of 44 pounds and can hold up to 600lbs of cargo. It also comes with two seat capacity, stand up casting and included 2 x Lightweight Breakdown Kayak Paddles, Removable Skeg, Travel Bag with Backpack Straps as well as two padded high back support adjustable EVA seats and drop in adjustable foot rest.

The steel frame design makes this kayak extremely durable while still being lightweight; it’s built for anglers who want something that won’t sink when they put their hands on them! The kayaks come with a 1 Year Guarantee on materials and assembly + 30 Day No Hassle Returns so you know what kind of quality control goes into these boats (which are made from 1680D Nylon).

14. Driftsun Rover 120 / 220 Inflatable Tandem Kayak

The Driftsun Rover 120 is a lightweight kayak that folds up into a small, compact size. It inflates fully in just 9 minutes and seats 1 adult. This solo kayak offers an excellent value for the price, as it can easily be set up by one person with no need for any tools or skills.

This inflatable tandem kayak comes with an adjustable EVA padded seat which makes it comfortable to sit on during long paddles. The reinforced double layered PVC construction ensures that this inflatable tandem kayak is durable enough to handle even rougher waters such as lakes or rivers while still being lightweight enough (22 lbs) so you can carry it wherever you go!

It has a capacity of 300 pounds when inflated; however, this doesn’t mean there aren’t extra features included like high-pressure dropstitch floor boosts stability & extremely sturdy construction which makes those trips around town easy breezy!

15. Elkton Outdoors Cormorant 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Elkton Outdoors Cormorant is a great option for seniors who want to enjoy the outdoors but don’t have the upper body strength or stamina to paddle. This kayak inflates quickly, weighing only 27 pounds and easily fits into your vehicle. It’s also lightweight enough that you can carry it with ease.

Elkton Outdoors Cormorant has a durable PVC tarpaulin bottom that protects against punctures while still being comfortable on your back as well as providing shelter from wind and rain if needed (it comes with an included cover). The top cover is rip-and-tear resistant so it won’t tear when exposed to rough waters like waves or current, so even if you get caught in some bad weather this kayak won’t let anything slip through its sturdy construction!

The cockpit area features two seats that each accommodate up to 250 pounds comfortably; however, there’s no room for storage underneath them since each seat has its own compartmentalized area containing essentials like paddles and life jackets when needed during trips out onto lakes or rivers where fishing might occur!

How to choose the best kayaks for you

Consider the following factors when selecting a kayak:

Length and Width

Length and width are the two most important factors when deciding on a lightweight kayak. The length of the kayak is important for stability, and it should be at least 10% of your height (so if you’re 5’10”, then go with a 9-foot model). A longer kayak provides more stability because there’s less room for water to get between them, but they also need more room in their hulls—which means they’re slower!

Most boats designed for beginners have a wide hull shape, which makes it easier for paddlers to learn how to maneuver the craft. Newbies should stick to the widest kayaks available. As their skill level increases, paddlers will want to choose a narrower boat. These models provide better handling characteristics and can make turns much easier.

Recreational kayaks tend to be smaller than touring kayaks. They usually weigh between 35 pounds and 50 pounds. They have shorter lengths (8 feet to 13 feet) and narrower widths (2 feet to 3 feet). Recreational kayaks are designed for small bodies of water and are typically used by individuals who enjoy fishing, swimming, canoeing, hiking and exploring nature.

Touring kayaks, on the other hand are larger and heavier. These boats can carry up to three paddlers and weigh anywhere from 50 pounds to 100 pounds. Touring kayaks tend to be somewhat wider (3 feet to 4 feet wide), longer (14 feet to 168 feet) and sturdier than recreational kayaks. They’re designed to handle big bodies of water and large waves. They’re often used by groups of friends or families who like to paddle together.

Hull Type

The hull type is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kayak. It determines how well it tracks, and therefore how well you can maneuver in various conditions.

The shape of your boat’s bottom affects its performance in many ways, so it’s worth getting familiar with them before you buy:

Flat Hull: These craft have a wide beam width which means a large surface area. Flatter boats mean greater stability. This makes them suitable for beginner paddlers who don’t desire maximum speed. Flat hulled kayaks are versatile and may work well when you paddle in calm waters.

A Rounder Hull: It does not matter how much you spend on your boat. However, having a round hull is better than a flat one because it has a longer range and is more stable. It will be able to handle rough seas easily, so you don’t have to worry about capsizing when there are waves.

The round shape of the hull provides good resistance against waves and enables greater stability. It reduces rolling and pitching tendencies by reducing heeling forces. It’s ideal for beginners who are just learning to sail.

V-Shaped: Hull shapes play a major role when determining how stable a kayak can be. In general, more pointed (V) shaped hulls tend to have less primary stability than rounder (U) shaped ones. Since the U-shaped hulls are heavier, they tend to perform better when used in windy conditions. Rounder shaped boats are usually recommended for beginners who don’t paddle competitively.

Pontoon: Pontoon boats have a reputation for being extremely sturdy, especially when compared to round hulled boats. They tend to be slow however, which can make them unsuitable for fishing.

Chine: Chines are the indentations along the side of a boat which meet at the waterline. They provide additional strength by acting like shock absorbers when waves hit the boat. These features can be found on most vessels ranging from fishing boats to luxury yachts. Soft chines work best on smaller boats whereas harder chines perform better on larger craft.

The best kayak for you depends on how often you plan to use your boat, what kind of conditions (weather and water) you’re going to be paddling in, and how much storage space/weight capacity is really important to you.

If you’re planning on using your kayak to go long distances, then a touring boat will be best suited for you. If you plan on using it for recreational purposes like fishing and swimming, then a recreational boat might be better suited for your needs (unless of course you want to go far).

Weight Capacity and Storage

A kayak’s weight capacity and storage are two of the most important features to consider when choosing your new kayak.

The weight capacity is how much weight you can carry in your kayak without it being too heavy for you or making it difficult to use. For example, if you are looking at a 9-foot model with a weight capacity of 200 lbs., this means that if someone were to put their entire bodyweight (100 lbs) into this boat, they would be able to paddle away without issue.

Storage space refers to how much gear can fit inside of your boat before everything starts getting bulky and uncomfortable—or worse yet, unusable! If there isn’t enough room inside for all of my clothes or fishing gear then I’ll probably end up taking more stuff than necessary so that I don’t run out of room somewhere down stream where no one else will be able see me anyway!

Sit On Top/Sit in

Sit on top and sit in kayaks have different designs that make them ideal for different types of paddlers.

The Sit in kayaks have a cockpit that is enclosed on all sides, while sit on top kayaks have an open cockpit. The reason why this difference is important is because they affect the stability of each type of kayak.

Sit-on-top kayaks tend to be more stable than sit-in models as they have less moving parts and less weight in their design, which means they’re less likely to tip over when you’re out on the water doing tricks or trying new tricks with your friends! This makes them great if you want something easy going but still able to handle some rough waters (like rapids). They also tend not taking up much space when stored away so it’s easy enough for anyone regardless how big their garage/shed might be!

If you’re looking for a kayak that will fit in your trunk easily and have a lot of storage space, then the best option would be to get a sit-on-top recreational kayak. This type of boat will not only give you more room but also make it easier to load and unload items because there’s no need for inflating its seat (which is what happens when using an inflatable).

Features of Lightweight Kayaks

A lightweight kayak is a good choice if you want to get out on the water without having to worry about carrying bulky gear. These boats are generally made of plastic and other lightweight materials, so they’re easier to transport and also lighter than their fiberglass counterparts.

There are many different features that you’ll want when shopping for one of these boats:

  • Materials used in the boat’s construction (e.g., foam or polyethylene)
  • Thickness of its hull (the bigger it is, the faster it will paddle)
  • Overall size (how much room does it take up?)

Inflatable boats are a good choice if you’re looking for something that’s easy to transport and store. They take up much less room than rigid boats do, and they can be deflated and rolled up when not in use. There are many different types of inflatable boats, including whitewater kayaks, fishing kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) and recreational kayaks.

There are also different materials used in the construction of inflatable boats, including PVC and Hypalon. The former is more rigid than the latter, which tends to be softer and more flexible. Generally speaking, inflatable boats offer a better paddling experience than rigid ones do because they’re easier to maneuver in small spaces. However, some people find that they can have trouble with tracking due to the fact that their hulls aren’t as stable as those on other types of kayaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best lightest Kayak for seniors?

The Driftsun Voyager Kayak is perfect for seniors. It weighs only 27 pounds with 2-seat capacity and the seats feature premium EVA foam inserts for maximum comfort.

What is the lightest material for kayaks?

Lightweight kayaks tend to be made out of high-tech materials such as fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon fiber. These types of boats are typically more aerodynamic than traditional wooden models and therefore more efficient. They are also often lighter weight which makes them easier to paddle and carry around.

What length kayak is most stable?

Recreational kayaks come in many different shapes and sizes. One popular size is ten feet long. They have similar stability to eight footers while offering extra space for storing gear. Most 10-foot boats will feature two large storage compartments in the bow and stern.

What type of kayak is most comfortable?

We recommend the Oru Inlet because it offers all the features necessary for a comfortable kayaking experience. Its stability makes it ideal for beginners who aren’t yet accustomed to paddling. Seniors can enjoy the spacious cockpit and wide seat. Meanwhile, its versatility allows you to paddle around lakes, rivers and oceans. Otherwise, we like the Driftsun Voyager Kayak for beginners and seniors.

Is a longer or shorter kayak better?

Boat size has little impact on performance unless you have a boat that’s over 30 feet long. In this case, longer boats tend to cruise more efficiently because they can travel at slower speeds. They also provide more room for passengers and cargo. Shorter boats are usually faster because they can travel at higher speeds. However, they don’t hold as much cargo or people.

What is the most durable kayak material?

While there are many types of aramid fibers, none are stronger than carbon fiber. In fact, Kevlar is slightly stronger than carbon fiber. However, Kevlar has several advantages over carbon fiber including its ability to be woven. Because of this, it can be used to make more durable fabrics like ropes.

Final words

Are lightweight kayaks ideal for adults who want to enjoy paddling outdoors without having to worry too much about their gear weighing them down?

Lightweight kayaking has become extremely popular over recent years. In addition to being easier to handle and more comfortable, these boats also tend to weigh less, making them great for beginners or older paddlers looking to lighten their load. The sport attracts both recreational enthusiasts and athletes who compete at national level events.

Lightweight kayaks are perfect for people who don’t want to carry around heavy camping equipment every time they go out on the water. If you love spending time outside but hate carrying loads of extra baggage, consider buying a lightweight kayak instead.

 If you’re a senior who still wants to enjoy the outdoors, but doesn’t want to risk injury or fatigue, a kayak may be just what you need. We’ve compiled our top picks for lightweight kayaks that are perfect for seniors.

Stay connect with Gear Odds for more information. Enjoy your kayaking.

Matthew Koch

Hi, I'm Matthew, a passionate blogger and traveler. I'm also a hard-core hiker. Hiking with friends and visiting new places is what I live for. Currently, I'm working at Gear Odds as CEO & Columnist. I would like to provide my best outdoor experience possible.