How Much Does A Kayak Weigh? Listing The Lightest And Examples For Each Type

how-much-does-kayak-weigh

A day out on the water in a kayak can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for many. Kayaking offers a low-impact workout, allowing you to explore the great outdoors while getting some exercise. But, before you can embark on your next kayaking adventure, you may be wondering about the weight of a kayak. Understanding the weight of different types of kayaks can help you plan better and ensure that you have the right equipment, such as a kayaking roof rack, for your needs.

In this article, we’ll look at the factors affecting a kayak’s weight and provide examples of various types of kayaks, along with their average weights.

Lightest Kayaks in Each Category

  1. Recreational Kayak: Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS – Approximately 27 pounds
  2. Touring Kayak: Stellar S14 LV – Approximately 33 pounds (made from composite material)
  3. Whitewater Kayak: Jackson Kayak Antix 2.0 Small – Approximately 30 pounds
  4. Fishing Kayak: Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler – Approximately 44 pounds
  5. Inflatable Kayak: Sea Eagle 330 – Approximately 26 pounds
  6. Tandem Kayak: Sea Eagle 370 Pro – Approximately 32 pounds (inflatable tandem)
  7. Folding Kayak: Pakayak Bluefin 14 – Approximately 24 pounds

Factors Affecting a Kayak’s Weight

  1. Material: The material from which a kayak is made will play a significant role in its overall weight. Common materials include polyethylene, composite materials (fiberglass, carbon fiber, or Kevlar), thermoformed plastic, and inflatable materials like PVC or Hypalon.

  2. Size: A kayak’s size will also impact its weight. Longer, wider kayaks will generally weigh more than smaller, more compact models.

  3. Features and Accessories: Additional features and accessories, such as seats, footrests, storage compartments, and fishing equipment, can also add weight to a kayak.

Examples of Different Kayak Types and Their Average Weights

  1. Recreational Kayaks

Recreational kayaks are designed for casual paddlers who want to explore calm waters like lakes and slow-moving rivers. These kayaks are typically made from polyethylene or thermoformed plastic and are known for their stability and ease of use. The average weight of a recreational kayak ranges from 40 to 60 pounds.

Example:

  • Old Town Vapor 10: A popular recreational kayak, the Vapor 10 is made from polyethylene and weighs approximately 47 pounds.
  1. Touring Kayaks

Touring kayaks, also known as sea kayaks, are designed for longer trips on open water. They’re typically longer and narrower than recreational kayaks, providing better tracking and speed. Touring kayaks can be made from various materials, including polyethylene, composite materials, and thermoformed plastic. The average weight of a touring kayak ranges from 45 to 65 pounds.

Example:

  • Wilderness Systems Tsunami 145: This polyethylene touring kayak is known for its comfort and storage capacity. It weighs approximately 56 pounds.
  1. Whitewater Kayaks

Whitewater kayaks are designed for navigating fast-moving rivers with rapids and obstacles. These kayaks are generally shorter and more maneuverable than other types, making them well-suited for navigating tight turns and handling rough water. Whitewater kayaks are often made from polyethylene due to its durability and resistance to impact. The average weight of a whitewater kayak ranges from 30 to 50 pounds.

Example:

  • Dagger Mamba 8.6: A versatile whitewater kayak, the Mamba 8.6 is made from polyethylene and weighs approximately 48 pounds.
  1. Fishing Kayaks

Fishing kayaks are designed specifically for anglers, providing features like rod holders, tackle storage, and fish finders. These kayaks are often wider and more stable than other types, allowing for comfortable casting and reeling. Fishing kayaks can be made from a variety of materials, with polyethylene being the most common. The average weight of a fishing kayak ranges from 60 to 120 pounds.

Example:

  • Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 14: This pedal-driven fishing kayak offers numerous features for anglers, and its polyethylene construction contributes to its weight of approximately 120 pounds.
  1. Inflatable Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are a popular option for those looking for a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-store kayak. Made from materials like PVC or Hypalon, inflatable kayaks can be used for recreational paddling, touring, and even fishing. These kayaks can be inflated and deflated quickly, making them ideal for those with limited storage space or those who need to transport their kayak frequently. The average weight of an inflatable kayak ranges from 20 to 40 pounds.

Example:

  • Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Kayak: This inflatable kayak offers the performance of a hard-shell kayak with the convenience of an inflatable. Made from durable PVC-coated fabric, it weighs approximately 36 pounds.
  1. Tandem Kayaks

Tandem kayaks are designed for two paddlers, offering a shared kayaking experience. These kayaks can be used for recreational paddling, touring, and fishing, depending on the model. Tandem kayaks are often longer and wider than single kayaks to accommodate the extra paddler. They can be made from various materials, with polyethylene being the most common. The average weight of a tandem kayak ranges from 60 to 100 pounds.

Example:

  • Ocean Kayak Malibu Two: This popular tandem kayak is made from polyethylene and is designed for recreational paddling on calm waters. It weighs approximately 57 pounds.
  1. Folding Kayaks

Folding kayaks offer a unique solution for those looking for a portable and easy-to-store kayak. These kayaks feature a collapsible frame, typically made from aluminum or wood, and a durable fabric skin. Folding kayaks can be used for recreational paddling, touring, and even fishing. The average weight of a folding kayak ranges from 25 to 45 pounds.

Example:

  • Oru Kayak Bay ST: This innovative folding kayak is made from corrugated plastic and features an aluminum frame. It weighs approximately 28 pounds and can be assembled in just a few minutes.

Concluding: How Much Does A Kayak Weigh?

As you can see, the weight of a kayak can vary greatly depending on its type, materials, size, and features. When choosing a kayak, it’s essential to consider how you’ll be using it and whether the weight will be manageable for transportation, storage, and portability. By understanding the differences in kayak weights, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect kayak to suit your needs and preferences.

Scroll to Top