How Durable are Inflatable Kayaks?
Thinking of buying an inflatable kayak, but worried the plastic construction might be easily damaged? Nobody wants any kind of leak in a kayak...is this line of reasoning convincing you to buy a hard plastic boat instead of inflatable?
You might be surprised to hear that inflatable kayaks from some premium manufacturers like NRS are built of the same durable material used in industry-leading whitewater rafts that are going down the Grand Canyon.
And if a material can handle the Grand Canyon, it should be able to handle your local lake or river, right?
Let's take a look at an example of the quality construction of one of our most popular inflatable kayaks, the NRS Pike Inflatable Kayak.
How Durable Are Inflatable Kayaks: A Look at the NRS Pike
The Pike Inflatable Kayak side tubes, typical of all NRS inflatable kayaks, starts with a nylon base fabric. Then, on the exterior and the interior, there's a very durable PVC coating that protects both the outer skin and internal air bladder.
This material easily brushes aside any sticks or sharp rocks that would easily puncture material used in cheaper big-box store inflatables. And we don't need to tell you how big a deal this becomes if a puncture happens away from shore! Score some big points for proper inflatable kayaks built for reliability.
Other Premium Inflatable Kayak Durability Features
If the whitewater performance materials haven't convinced you, here's some other durable pieces found in NRS' Pike inflatable kayak.
High-Pressure Drop Stitched Floor
This provides an extremely stable, durable platform to plant your feet on, or even walk on. The floor is designed for this type of repeated use. Cheaper generic kayaks won't have this level of stability, which makes the kayak more unsteady, difficult to paddle, and sketchy to move around on.
Rigid Keel
The Pike features a hard keel in the bow which helps it track on flatwater. This means it is easier to paddle in a straight line, saving you energy AND helping you paddle faster! Who doesn't like a little pep when they glide across a lake?!
Aluminium-Frame Suspended-Mesh Seat
If you're sitting all day...you probably want to be comfortable. This sturdy, supportive seat keeps makes that happen. It also holds you in a primo paddling position all day long so you won't have to do a non-stop sit-up like you'd have to in the cheaper, flimsier seats found in lower quality inflatable kayaks.
How Durable Are Inflatable Kayaks Summary
So if you're wondering about premium inflatable kayak durability, now you know they have the same key materials as whitewater rafts which means they can handle anything you throw at them. You won't find that in box big stores.
Many of the inflatable kayaks we carry have several other features which will enhance your enjoyment on the water by keeping you comfortable and making the paddling easier.
If you need a little more convincing then check out [Are Inflatable Kayaks Worth It].
If you have any questions about inflatable kayaks, or any kayaks for that matter, please feel free to visit us in store or contact us below!
AQ Outdoors Inflatable Kayak Collection
AQ Outdoors Contact
Edmonton: (p) 780 463-4892 (e) info@aquabaticsedmonton.com
Calgary: (p) 403 288-9283 (e) info@aqoutdoors.com
