Inflatable Kayak vs Hardshell: Choose the Proper One

At kayaking locations around the world, most people rent kayaks while others bring theirs with them. When making the decision on the kayak to rent or buy, it can be confusing to choose between an inflatable kayak vs a hardshell kayak.

In this post, we’ve highlighted the basic features of these two popular kayaks. These facts will help in making the right choice.

Inflatable Kayak vs Hardshell: Different Features

Discussed below are the different features and properties that differentiate inflatable kayaks vs hardshell boats. Explore them to get a better understanding of the benefits they distinctly offer.

Portability and Storage

• Weight and Ease of Transportation: Inflatable kayaks are very light and weigh about 25 pounds, as they are made from synthetic rubber and plastic. Hardshell, on the other hand, is also known as a rigid kayak and it is made from wood, plastic, fiberglass, and composite materials, causing it to be heavy and weigh about 55 pounds.

In this debate about inflatable kayaks vs hard-shell kayaks, inflatable kayaks are less heavy, which makes transportation easier. 

• Storage Space Requirements: Another advantage of an inflatable kayak over a hardshell is that it can be deflated and stored in a duffel bag or suitcase wherever you go; it’s the real definition of portability. On the other hand, the rigid structure of the hardshell requires transporting with a kayak trailer or a roof rack, and a bigger storage space.

Performance and Maneuverability

• Maneuverability Capabilities: In this debate of inflatable vs hard kayak, the latter wins, as inflatable kayaks are difficult to maneuver. They are wider, lighter, and easily tossed around, resulting in sluggish and difficult navigation. Hard shell kayaks, on the other hand, are heavier and sit lower in the water, meaning that they don’t get tossed around easily, even in extreme conditions. They are designed to be narrower, making them the best kayak for rough water.
• Speed and Efficiency in Different Conditions: On this note of inflatable kayak vs hardshell, the latter takes the win again. Hardshell kayaks are manufactured for high performance, speed, tracking, and easy maneuverability in all conditions. Inflatable kayaks, on the other hand, struggle to move smoothly during harsh conditions, hence their inability to high speed and inefficiency in different water conditions.

Stability and Comfort

Concerning this inflatable kayaks vs hardshell kayaks feature, the inflatables are better because they have a wider beam that ensures a high degree of on-the-water stability. And when combined with multiple air-filled chambers, it becomes more difficult to tip them over. 

Hardshell kayaks are quite compact and have lesser on-the-water stability. That’s why inflatable kayaks are notable mentions in the list of the most stable fishing kayaks.

Also, inflatable kayaks have a soft, air-filled layer to sit on, which offers comfort throughout the trip. Hardshell kayaks, on the other hand, have seats made of rigid materials, which tend to be uncomfortable during long-hour trips. However, hardshell kayaks offer back support while inflatables don’t.

Durability and Maintenance

• Resistance to UV and Wear: In this debate of inflatable kayaks vs hard-shell kayaks, the latter are better options as they are made from tough materials like wood, plastics, and composites that are resistant to UV and wear. Inflatable kayaks, on the other hand, are soft and can sustain leaks or punctures from hitting a sharp rock. They could also change color and toughness from too much sunlight.
• Maintenance Requirements: For this matter of inflatable vs hard kayak, both of them require quality maintenance if they must last long and function efficiently. Inflatable kayaks need to be washed, drained, and left outside to dry properly before they are stored. Otherwise, they will grow disturbing mold and mildew. Also, they should be deflated after every use because they could generate strains on the seams, which poses damage to the valves.

Factors to Consider When Choosing from Inflatable vs Hard Kayak

Discussed below are the factors to consider when choosing from inflatable kayaks vs hardshell kayaks, such as the intended use, budget, and safety.

Intended Use

Depending on the intended use, the perfect choice can be made between an inflatable vs hard kayak. Generally, inflatable kayaks are preferable for slow and remote water bodies, such as recreational paddling on calm lakes or rivers, as they provide good stability and excellent resistance to the waves, wind, and current.

On the other hand, hardshell kayaks are more suitable for whitewater kayaking in rivers with rapids or sea kayaking in coastal or open water, where high performance and speed are required.

Budget Considerations

Ordinarily, when it comes to budget considerations between inflatable kayaks vs hard-shell kayaks, inflatables are lower in cost because they are made with less-expensive and softer materials.

However, in recent times, technological advancement has rubbed off on inflatable kayak manufacturing. Now, they are tougher because they are made with redundant air chambers that reduce the risk of wear and leaks. This sturdier construction is more costly than the former productions.

But generally, hardshell kayaks require higher budgets because of the cost of wood, fiberglass, and composite used for production. Their maintenance and repairs also cost more.

Safety Considerations

The number one priority when enjoying the kayak on the water should be safety, including the passenger’s safety if it’s a tandem kayak. This is also important if the water is shared with other people. The best kayak is one that guarantees stability despite contact with other vessels.

When riding in rough waters, in harsh conditions, or sharing the water with other people, hardshell kayaks are the best. Inflatable kayaks are preferable for calmer waters and lonely rides. But the advancement in the recent inflatable kayak construction proves that they offer some degree of safety that can be beneficial in rough waters. 

Prepare a Customized Floating Dock for the Boat

Hiseadock prepares customized floating docks that will ensure the boat remains above water regardless of the water level and movement.

Stability and Floatation

Using high-quality materials, the floating dock is made to be unique to the water condition of the area, ensuring the boat remains stable and floats on water. Regardless of the turbulence, no harm will happen to the boat.

Ease to Install and Maintain

The floating docks are made to be easy to install and require little to no maintenance. Assistance isn’t really needed from any professional to install and maintain them. Also, they have various quality certifications, which authenticates their reliability.

Conclusion

This inflatable kayak vs hardshell kayak debate can only be settled by i.e., after considering their features and how they affect the intended use, budget, and safety considerations. But we trust this comparison discussed will be helpful when selecting.

Generally, inflatable kayaks offer better portability and storage, as well as better stability and comfort. While hardshell kayaks offer better performance and maneuverability, as well as better durability and maintenance.

Hiseadock has 10+ years of experience and a wide range of expertise in manufacturing both inflatable and hard shell kayaks to your satisfaction. You can contact us for a free quote on your needs.