Looking to get into kayaking but don't know where to start? We've got you covered. We've rounded up our best-selling kayaks to help you make the right choice. From full size mulitple-person kayaks to innovative space saving ones, we have a kayak that will work for you, even if you don't have a roof rack.
- Best for All Ages: West Marine Retreat 8' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak
- For Great Tracking and Stability: West Marine Retreat 12' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak
- For Reeling in a Few Trophies: West Marine Angler 12' Sit On Top Kayak
- For a Space Saving Kayak/Paddleboard Combo: ISLE Switch 11' 6" Inflatable SUP-Kayak Complete Package
- For Paddling with a Friend or Two: West Marine Retreat 13.5' Tandem Sit on Top Kayak
- For a Lightweight, Folding Kayak: Oru Kayak Lake Model
Best Kayak for All Ages
West Marine Retreat 8' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak
Top features: Our Retreat 8' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak is easy to paddle while offering maximum stability making it great for all ages. With molded-in graduated foot wells to accomodate a variety of paddler heights, this kayak is perfect to swap between people throughout the day and the adjustable, padded seat back makes for a comfortable cockpit.
What makes it stand out: Lightweight, easy to carry and great for all ages.
Best Full Size Recreational Kayak
West Marine Retreat 12' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak
Top features: Our Retreat 12' Sit On Top Recreational Kayak is great for lake or river use and tracks and paddles incredibly well. It features a large seating area with an adjustable padded seat to keep you comfortable all day and adjustable foot braces to fit a variety of rider sizes. If 12' is too big for you, we also offer a 10' version.
What makes it stand out: Large, comfortable seating area, ample storage and excellent tracking.
Best Fishing Kayak
West Marine Angler 12' Sit On Top Kayak
Top features: Our Angler 12' Sit On Top Kayak boasts all the comfort and handling advantages of our Retreat series but with the addition of angler-specific features like one swivel and two flush mount rod holders, recessed tackle holders and a paddle holder making it perfect for kayak fishing.If 12' is too big for you, we also offer a 10' version.
What makes it stand out: Angler specific features like rod, tackle and paddle holders and plenty of storage.
Best Inflatable SUP-Kayak Combo
ISLE Switch 11' 6" Inflatable SUP-Kayak Complete Package
Top features: The ISLE Switch 11 foot 6 inch Inflatable SUP-Kayak Complete Package is a great option for paddlers with limited space or who don't have a roof rack. Uninflated, the board folds down and fits inside the included backpack carrying case that easily fits in a trunk or the backseat of a car to transport to the water. Inflated, the hull weighs only 19 lbs. and is optimized for both SUP and sit-on-top kayak use with the inlcuded back and foot rest.
What makes it stand out: Easy to store when uninflated and converts to kayak use with the included seat, giving you the best of both worlds. It can also be converted to a tandem kayak with an additional seat (sold separately).
Best Tandem Kayak
West Marine Retreat 13.5' Tandem Sit on Top Kayak
Top features: Our Retreat 13.5' Tandem Sit on Top Kayak can seat one, two or three paddlers making it a great option for group trips with family or friends. If you have young kids or inexperienced paddlers in your group who aren't comfortable paddling alone, a tandem kayak is a great option.
What makes it stand out: Seats up to three people making it great for group trips.
Best Folding Kayak
Oru Kayak Lake Model
Top features: The Oru Kayak Lake Model is a portable kayak that folds down to about the size of a duffle bag making it easy to fit in a back seat or trunk to transport to the water. At only 17 lbs., the Lake kayak is light enough for just about anyone to carry while still being durable enough to stand up to bumping into or sliding over obstacles on the water. For more information, check out our Oru Kayak Lake Model Ultimate Guide West Advisor.
What makes it stand out: Unique folding design makes it easy to store and can be assembled in under a minute.
Frequently Asked Kayak Questions
How to Tie Down Kayaks on a Roof Rack
How to tie down your kayak will vary slightly depending on the type of kayak rack you have but the basic steps are as follows:
- Use cam straps to secure the kayak to the rack
- Jiggle the kayak to make sure it is secure and tighten the straps more if it doesn't feel secure
- Tie a line to the stern of the boat and attach it to a tie down point near the rear bumper
- Tie a line to the bow of the boat and attach it to a point near the front bumper
How to Store Kayaks
Storing your kayak indoors is your best bet, but if you don't have the space you can store your kayak outdoors as long it is protected from the sun and the elements.
How Much Do Kayaks Weigh?
Kayak weight varies depending on the materials and size but they can weigh anywhere from 20 lbs up to 100 lbs for a fully loaded fishing kayak.
How Much do Kayaks Cost?
The price of kayak depends on multiple factors such as its size, construction and included features. Our West Marine Brand kayaks run anywhere from around $260 up to around $700.
Ready to Get on the Water?
We hope this article has given you everything you need to jump into the world of kayaking. It's a great way to get on the water and can be a very relaxing way to spend the day. If you end up joining in on the fun, we'll see you out there.
Need More Help?
West Marine is the perfect place to get ready for your next paddle adventure. With a crew of boaters ready to help, we can get you geared up for any trip. Find your store here.
Related: