12 Best Youth Kayak Options

Best Youth Kayak Options for 2023

Kayaking is an exciting outdoor activity that people of all ages can enjoy. However, finding the right kayak for your child can be daunting, especially if you need to familiarize yourself with the best youth kayaks and what to consider when purchasing the different types available in the market. In this article, we’ll discuss the best youth kayaks and what to consider when purchasing.

Regarding youth kayaks, there are several factors to consider, such as size, weight, stability, and durability. You want to ensure that the kayak is the right size for your child and can support their weight without compromising stability. Additionally, the kayak should be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

Materials

One critical factor to consider is the material used to make the kayak. Most youth kayaks are made of either plastic or fiberglass. Plastic kayaks are more affordable and durable, making them an excellent choice for beginners. On the other hand, fiberglass kayaks are lighter and more maneuverable, making them ideal for more experienced young kayakers.

After researching and testing several youth kayaks, we’ve identified the top five that offer the best value for your money. These kayaks are easy to handle, durable, and provide a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience for your child.

Best Youth Kayaks

Looking for the best youth kayak to take your child on an adventure? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the top youth kayaks available on Amazon. Our team of experts has researched and tested each kayak to ensure that they are safe, durable, and easy to use. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced paddler, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list below to find the perfect kayak for your little one.

Pelican Solo Youth Kayak

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Pelican Solo Youth Kayak

The Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is an excellent option if you’re looking for a lightweight and stable kayak for your kids.

Pros

• The open cockpit design and molded carrying handle make it easy to transport and use.
• The twin tunnel design provides excellent stability and maneuverability, making it easy for kids to learn how to kayak.
• The swim-up rear deck with a handle makes it easy for kids to get back on the kayak from the water.

Cons

• The kayak has a limit of 100 pounds, so it may not be suitable for larger or older kids.
• The paddle with the kayak may not be very sturdy, so you may want to consider purchasing a higher-quality paddle separately.
• The kayak doesn’t have a seat, so you must purchase one separately if you want to add one.

We recently took the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak out on the water with our kids, and we were impressed by its stability and ease of use. The twin tunnel design makes it easy for kids to maneuver the kayak, and the swim-up rear deck is a great feature that allows kids to get back on the kayak from the water easily.

Remember that the kayak has a weight limit of 100 pounds, so it may not be suitable for larger or older kids. Additionally, the paddle that comes with the kayak may not be very sturdy, so consider purchasing a higher-quality paddle separately.

Overall, we recommend the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak for parents looking for a lightweight and stable kayak for their kids. Just to let you know, you’ll need to purchase a seat separately if you want to add one.

Kayak Lifetime, 6′, Youth, with Bonus Paddle Yellow, Red, Blue, Pink

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Kayak Lifetime, 6′, Youth, with Bonus Paddle Yellow, Red, Blue, Pink

If you want a durable and stable kayak for your child, the Kayak Lifetime 6′ Wave is a great option.

Pros

• The wide stance provides excellent stability for your child while paddling.
• The sloped back end and swim-up step make it easy for your child to re-enter the kayak from the water.
• The multiple footrest positions ensure that your child can comfortably paddle.

Cons

• The kayak may tip over if the rider’s center of gravity is not low.
• The kayak may not be suitable for children over 130 lbs.
• The kayak is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials.

We recently purchased the Kayak Lifetime 6′ Wave for our 8-year-old son, who loves it. The kayak is easy to transport and set up, and the bright colors make it easy to spot on the water. The wide stance and multiple footrest positions ensure that our son is comfortable while paddling, and the sloped back end and swim-up step make it easy for him to re-enter the kayak from the water.

Remember that the kayak may tip over if the rider’s center of gravity is not low. Additionally, the kayak may not be suitable for children over 130 lbs. However, we are delighted with our purchase and would recommend the Kayak Lifetime 6′ Wave to other parents looking for an excellent kayak for their child.

Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak (Paddle Included), Lime Green

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Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak (Paddle Included), Lime Green

If you’re looking for a youth kayak that’s perfect for your kids, the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak is what you need. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and comes with a paddle included.

Pros

• The kayak is designed to be stable and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for kids who are just starting to learn how to kayak.
• The swim-up deck design with molded hand grips makes it easy for kids to re-enter the kayak if they fall off.
• The multiple footrest positions allow for different-sized, starting-to-learn, including paddle paddlers, making it an excellent option for families with multiple kids.

Cons

• The kayak has a weight limit of 150 lbs, which might not be suitable for older or larger kids.
• The cockpit is designed to be ergonomic, which might not be comfortable for kids who are used to a more traditional kayak design.
• The lime green color might not be appealing to all kids.

We recently took the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak out for a spin with our kids, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. The kayak is lightweight, which makes it easy for our kids to carry it to the water. Once on the water, the kayak was stable and easy to maneuver, even in choppy water.

Our favorite kayak feature is the swim-up deck design with molded hand grips. This made it easy for our kids to re-enter the kayak if they fell off, which gave us peace of mind knowing they could return to the kayak if needed.

The multiple footrest positions were also a great feature, allowing our kids to adjust the kayak to fit their size. This made it an excellent option for families with multiple kids, as each kid could adjust the footrests to their size.

Overall, we highly recommend the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak to any family looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use kayak for their kids. It’s stable, easy to maneuver, and includes a paddle, making it an excellent price.

GLOBALWAY 6FT Touring Youth Kayak

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GLOBALWAY 6FT Touring Youth Kayak

We highly recommend the GLOBALWAY 6FT Touring Youth Kayak for parents who want to introduce their kids to the joys of kayaking. With its durable HDPE materials, 4-position footrest, foldable backrest, and ampleexploring the water and havingexploring the water and having storage space, this kayak is perfect for kids who want to explore the water and have fun with their friends.

Pros

• The 4-position footrest allows for a better rowing experience and can be adjusted to fit kids of different heights.
• The foldable seat back saves available storage space, making it easy to transport and store.
• The front and rear storage hatches provide large storage space for all your kid’s fishing gear and outdoor equipment.

Cons

• The kayak is relatively heavy at 22 lbs, so it may be difficult for younger kids to carry on their own.
• The kayak only comes in three colors – red, orange, and blue – so there isn’t much variety to choose from.
• The kayak is only recommended for kids over five years old, so younger children may be unable to use it.

The double-hand paddle is an excellent feature for balance training, and the hull design ensures ultra-stability. The kayak also comes with a rear self-bailing scupper hole, ensuring safety. The cup holder and bottle holder provide easy access and better fixation, making it easy for kids to stay hydrated while on the water.

The kayak is crafted with odor-free and non-toxic HDPE materials, which makes it highly durable, wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. It also has a front carrying handle, two side handles, and two rear casters for easy carrying from different directions.

In conclusion, the GLOBALWAY 6FT Touring Youth Kayak is an excellen investment for parents who want to introduce their kids to the joys of kayaking. It’s durable, easy to transport, and has plenty of storage space for all your kid’s fishing gear and outdoor equipment.

Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak

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Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak

If you’re looking for a youth kayak for your child, the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak is a great option that offers a comfortable rowing experience and ample storage space.

Pros

• Made of odor-free and non-toxic HDPE material, ensuring high durability and corrosion resistance
• Comes with a double-head paddle, allowing the kid to train balance by tracking and surfing
• Folding backrest with ergonomic design perfectly supports kid’s back and lumbar to avoid pain after sedentary playing

Cons

• Some customers have reported issues with delivery and receiving damaged products
• The kayak may not be suitable for rough waters or strong currents
• The weight limit of 121 pounds may not be enough for some older or larger children

We recently purchased the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak for our 8-year-old daughter and have been really impressed with its design and features. The kayak is made of high-quality HDPE material that is both durable and non-toxic, ensuring that our child is safe while using it. The double-head paddle included with the kayak has been great for our daughter to practice her balance while having fun on the water.

The folding backrest with ergonomic design is also a great feature that provides additional support for our child’s back and lumbar, which helps to prevent pain and discomfort after long periods of sitting. The kayak also has ample storage space, with front and rear storage hatches, bungee cord lacing, and mesh to secure loose items. The cup holder and bottle holder are also a nice touch for easy access to drinks.

While we have been very happy with the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak, some customers have reported issues with delivery and receiving damaged products. Additionally, the kayak may not be suitable for rough waters or strong currents, so it’s important to keep that in mind when choosing a location to take it out on. Finally, the weight limit of 121 pounds may not be enough for some older or larger children, so it’s important to check the specifications before purchasing.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak for parents looking for a high-quality and safe option for their child to enjoy on the water.

Evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak

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Evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak

If you’re looking for a premium youth kayak that’s both durable and lightweight, the Evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak is a great choice.

Pros

• The kayak is made in the USA and designed to be durable, with a 5-year limited warranty to back it up.
• It’s versatile and designed to meet the needs of youth, with features like front storage and a convenient cup holder.
• The kayak has premium ergonomic features like a padded slip-resistant seat, swim-up deck, and paddle rest, making it comfortable for extended periods.

Cons

• The kayak may not be suitable for children over 130lbs or taller than 6’6″.
• Some users may find the kayak challenging to maneuver in choppy waters.
• The kayak may not be suitable for children under four years old.

We recently tried out the Water Bear Youth Kayak and were impressed with its stability and ease of use. The kayak’s stable hull design made it easy to maneuver, even for younger children, and the footrests were adjustable to fit children of different sizes. We also appreciated the Treasure Tray, which was a fun feature for kids to store their rocks and other treasures.

Remember that the kayak may be a bit heavy for younger children to carry on their own, so it’s best to have an adult help with transportation. Additionally, while the kayak is designed to be durable, it may hold up poorly under heavy use or in rough waters.

Overall, we recommend the Evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak to anyone looking for a high-quality and versatile youth kayak that’s both comfortable and fun to use.

Goplus Inflatable Kayak for 1 Person

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Goplus Inflatable Kayak for 1 Person

We highly recommend the Goplus Inflatable Kayak for 1 Person for anyone looking for a fun and easy way to explore lakes and moderate rivers.

Pros

• The kayak is made of durable, high-quality PVC material that is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and sunlight damage abrasion, impact, and sunlight damage.
• The kayak is easy to assemble and can be launched anytime for your adventure.
• The detachable seat features safe buckles that can connect with D-rings for better protection.

Cons

• The kayak is only suitable for 1 person to rowing and has a maximum weight limit of 300lbs.
• The kayak’s paddles are not the best quality.
• The kayak could track better, but then you lose maneuverability.

The Goplus Inflatable Kayak for 1 Person is an excellent lightweight, compact, and easy-to-transport kayak optionone. The kayak has a movable fin that provides directional stability, and comfy seats with backrests are attached for comfort. The waterproof storage bag on the back seat is practical and offers enough space for snacks, extra equipment, or any other necessities.

The kayak is easy to inflate and deflate with the help of the spring-loaded valve, which provides extra rigidity and stability. The kayak can be reduced and rolled into a compact size for easy travel or storage.

Overall, the Goplus Inflatable Kayak for 1 Person is a handy and fun kayaking option for various scenarios. The kayak can be used as a right-hand assistant for professionals to participate in water sports, and the canoe is also suitable for beginners to use the kayaking freely on the beach, river or lake, so it is straightforward to handle. With this kayaking, you’ll get hours of fun and accomplishment.

Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak (Paddle Included), Blue, 6′

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Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak (Paddle Included), Blue, 6′

The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is an excellent option if you’re looking for a durable and stable youth kayak.

Pros

• The ergonomic cockpit design helps enhance balance and motor skills.
• The molded finger handles on each kayak side make it easy to transport.
• The reverse chine design enhances stability, and the swim-up step makes it easy to return to the kayak.

Cons

• The weight capacity of 130 lbs. may not be enough for larger or older children.
• The included paddle may not be the highest quality.
• The kayak may not be suitable for rougher waters or more advanced kayaking.

We recently took the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak out on the lake with our nephew and were impressed with its stability and ease of use. The kayak felt sturdy and durable, and the molded finger handles made it easy to carry to and from the water. Our nephew, who is eight years old, had no trouble getting in and out of the kayak thanks to the swim-up step.

One thing to note is that more than the weight capacity of 130 lbs. may be needed for larger or older children, so it’s essential to check your child’s weight before purchasing. Additionally, while the included paddle is a nice touch, it may be a lower quality and must be replaced with a higher-end paddle for more severe kayaking.

We recommend the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak for younger children just starting to explore kayaking. It’s a great way to introduce them to the sport and help them develop balance and motor skills.

Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak – Sit-on-Top – Recreational Kayak – 8ft

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Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak – Sit-on-Top – Recreational Kayak – 8ft

If you’re looking for a youth kayak that is safe, stable, lightweight, and comfortable, the Pelican Sonic 80X is a great option.

Pros

• The unique manufacturing process includes additional flotation inside the hull to meet or surpass ABYC standards, making it safe for kids to use.
• The twin tunnel hull offers superior stability, making it easy for kids to get in and out of the kayak.
• The kayak is made of high molecular weight polyethylene, making it lightweight and easy for kids to maneuver.

Cons

• The maximum weight capacity is 225 lb, which may not be enough for larger kids or teens.
• The kayak does not come with side handles or indentations to grab onto, which may make it difficult to transport.
• The drain holes are located under the seat, which may lead to discomfort for some users.

We recently took the Pelican Sonic 80X out for a spin and were impressed with its stability and ease of use. The twin tunnel hull made it easy for our young paddler to get in and out of the kayak, and the adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest provided a comfortable ride. We appreciated the additional flotation inside the hull, which gave us peace of mind knowing our child was safe on the water.

The kayak is made of high-quality materials and is resistant to impact, ensuring it will last through time. We also appreciated the lightweight design, which made it easy for our child to maneuver. The kayak is available in a bright orange color, making it easy to spot on the water.

Overall, we highly recommend the Pelican Sonic 80X for parents looking for a safe, stable, and lightweight youth kayak for their child.

Tucktec Foldable Kayak

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Tucktec Foldable Kayak

If you’re looking for a versatile and portable kayak for youth and small adults, the Tucktec Foldable Kayak is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The kayak is designed for youth and small adults, providing a comfortable and snug fit for all your kayaking adventures.
• Its lightweight and foldable design makes it easy to carry and transport, perfect for those always on the go.
• The kayak can be easily assembled in just minutes without any tools, making it hassle-free and user-friendly.

Cons

• The kayak may not be suitable for more prominent individuals, as it is designed to accommodate youth and small adults.
• Some users may find the kayak less stable than traditional kayaks due to its lightweight construction.
• The kayak may not be suitable for advanced kayakers requiring more speed and maneuverability.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Tucktec Foldable Kayak and were impressed with its overall performance. The kayak is incredibly easy to assemble, taking only a few minutes to set up. Once completed, the kayak feels sturdy and secure, providing a safe and comfortable kayaking experience.

One of the standout features of the Tucktec Foldable Kayak is its portability. Most people can easily carry and transport the kayak, even fitting it into the trunk of their car without any issues. The kayak’s lightweight design makes it perfect for youth and small adults on the go.

While the kayak may not be suitable for more prominent individuals, it provided a comfortable and snug fit for its intended audience. The kayak’s stable design allowed us to easily navigate various water conditions, making it suitable for individuals of all skill levels.

We highly recommend the Tucktec Foldable Kayak for youth and small adults looking for a versatile and portable kayak. Its user-friendly design, exceptional performance, and 3-year warranty make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to embark on thrilling kayaking adventures.

Pelican Sentinel 100X Sit on Top Kayak

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Pelican Sentinel 100X Sit on Top Kayak

If you’re looking for a lightweight and stable kayak perfect for recreational use, the Pelican Sentinel 100X is a great option.

Pros

• The twin-arched multi-chine hull design provides excellent stability, making it easy to get in and out of the kayak and ensuring a secure and steady ride.
• The kayak is made with high molecular density polyethylene, making it exceptionally durable and lightweight at only 40 lbs. This makes it easy to transport and store.
• The adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest and seat cushion provide a comfortable paddling experience.

Cons

• The kayak doesn’t have a paddle, so you must purchase one separately.
• The maximum weight capacity is 300 lbs, which may not be suitable for larger individuals or those carrying a lot of gear.
• The kayak’s scupper holes can let in water, which may require frequent draining during use.

We recently took the Pelican Sentinel 100X out for a spin and were impressed with its stability and ease of use. The multi-chine hull design provided excellent stability, even in choppy water, and made getting in and out of the kayak easy.

The lightweight kayak made it easy to transport and store, and the adjustable backrest and seat cushion provided a comfortable paddling experience. We did find that the kayak’s scupper holes let in some water, which required frequent draining during use.

Overall, we recommend the Pelican Sentinel 100X to anyone looking for a lightweight and stable kayak for recreational use. Please purchase a paddle separately and consider the weight capacity when packing gear.

Perception Tribe 9.5 | Sit on Top Kayak for All-Around Fun | Large Rear Storage with Tie Downs | 9′ 5″ 2020 – Framed Seat Back Kayak DAPPER

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Perception Tribe 9.5 | Sit on Top Kayak for All-Around Fun | Large Rear Storage with Tie Downs | 9′ 5″ 2020 – Framed Seat Back Kayak DAPPER

If you’re looking for a dependable and versatile youth kayak, the Perception Tribe 9.5 is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

Pros

• The high-back frame seatback provides premium comfort with increased support and cushioning, along with adjustable recline positions for a relaxing and enjoyable paddling experience., cushioning, and
• With a robust weight capacity of 300 lbs, this kayak is ideal for paddlers of all sizes.
• The ample rear storage secured by durable tie-downs accommodates all your gear for a day on the water.

Cons

• At 46 pounds, this kayak may be heavy for some users to transport independently.
• The kayak’s size may not be suitable for smaller children.
• Some users may find the kayak’s price point a bit high.

We recently took the Perception Tribe 9.5 out on the water and were impressed with its stability and ease of use. The kayak’s sit-on-top design and high-back frame seatback provided a comfortable and enjoyable paddling experience. We could easily maneuver the kayak through tranquil lake waters and navigate mild ocean waves.

The kayak’s ample rear storage was a huge plus, allowing us to bring all the gear we needed for a full day on the water. The tie-downs kept everything secure and in place, even when the kayak was in motion.

While the kayak’s weight may be a bit heavy for some users to transport on their own, we found that it was still manageable with two people. The kayak’s size may not be suitable for smaller children, but it’s perfect for older kids and teenagers.

Overall, we highly recommend the Perception Tribe 9.5 for anyone looking for a dependable and versatile youth kayak built to last.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best youth kayak, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure you are well-informed before making your purchase, so here are some things to keep in mind:

Size and Weight Capacity

The first thing to consider is the size and weight capacity of the kayak. You want to make sure it is the right size for the child who will be using it. A kayak that is too small will be uncomfortable and challenging to maneuver, while one that is too large will be hard to control and potentially dangerous. Additionally, you want to ensure the kayak can support the child’s weight and any gear they may bring.

Material

Kayaks can be made from various materials, including plastic, fiberglass, and wood. Each material has pros and cons, so it’s essential to consider which will be best for your needs. Plastic kayaks are typically the most affordable and durable, while fiberglass kayaks are lightweight and perform well in the water. Wooden kayaks are beautiful and unique but expensive and require more maintenance.

Features

There are several features to consider when choosing a youth kayak. Some important ones include:

• Stability: You want a stable kayak that is easy to balance in the water.
• Comfort: Look for a kayak with a comfortable seat and enough legroom for the child.
• Maneuverability: An easy kayak to steer and control will be more enjoyable for the child.
• Storage: If the child is bringing gear, make sure the kayak has enough storage space.

Price

Finally, you want to consider the price of the kayak. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. A more expensive kayak may be more durable, perform better in the water, and have more features. However, you want to spend your money wisely if you need to. Look for a kayak that fits within your budget and meets your needs. 

Source: PaddleTV

Choose The Best One For You

To sum it up, when it comes to youth kayaking, there are plenty of great options. No matter if your kid is a newbie or already a pro, there’s a youth kayak that’ll work for them. We’ve looked at 12 of the best ones, considering safety, durability, comfort, and performance.

Please remember your child’s age, skill level, and where they’ll be kayaking when you choose. This way, you can ensure they have a fantastic time on the water and develop a lifelong love for adventure and the outdoors. So, get ready for some awesome kayaking adventures with your young ones!

FAQs

Explore the Kayaking World With The Youth

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