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Kayaking is a fun and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. For kids, it can be a great way to explore the outdoors and develop new skills. However, finding the right kayak for your child can be a challenge. Youth kayaks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it can be difficult to know which one is the best fit.
When shopping for a youth kayak, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, safety should be a top priority. Look for kayaks that are stable and easy to maneuver, with features like a wide base and a low center of gravity. You’ll also want to consider the weight and size of the kayak, as well as the weight capacity. A kayak that is too heavy or too small can be difficult for your child to handle.
After researching and testing several youth kayaks, we’ve identified the top options for kids of all ages and skill levels. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there’s a kayak on this list that will fit their needs. With the right kayak, your child can enjoy hours of fun on the water while staying safe and comfortable.
Best Youth Kayaks
If you’re looking to introduce your child to the world of kayaking, you’ll want to make sure they have a kayak that’s safe, easy to use, and designed for their size. Youth kayaks are the perfect solution, offering a range of features and styles to suit different ages and skill levels. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best youth kayaks on the market, based on factors such as stability, durability, and overall value for money. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced paddler, you’re sure to find a kayak that meets their needs and helps them enjoy the great outdoors.
Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak
If you’re looking for a durable and lightweight kayak for your kid, the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak is a great option.
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
- Only suitable for kids over 5 years old.
- Only has a weight limit of 121 pounds.
- Cup holder and bottle holder are not included and must be purchased separately.
This kayak is made of kid-friendly material and has a lightweight design, making it easy for kids to move around. The balance training feature is a great way for kids to have fun while also improving their skills. The folding backrest and footrest design provide a comfortable rowing experience for your kid.
The kayak has ample storage space for all the necessities, with front and rear storage hatches, bungee cord lacing, and mesh to secure loose items. The kayak is suitable for domestic pool, river, lake, and calm sea, making it a versatile option for different occasions.
Overall, the Goplus 6FT Youth Kayak is a great investment for parents looking for a high-quality kayak for their kids.
Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak
If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable kayak for your kid, then you should consider the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak.
Pros
- The kayak is lightweight and easy to transport, thanks to the carry handle molded into the seat.
- The ergonomic cockpit design enhances balance and motor skills, making it easier for your kid to paddle.
- The molded paddle cradle gives paddlers a convenient location to store their paddle while out on the water.
Cons
- The footrests might be too far out for some kids, which could cause discomfort during long paddling sessions.
- The foam seat back might not provide enough support for some kids, especially those with back problems.
- The kayak’s weight capacity is limited to 150 pounds, which means that it might not be suitable for bigger or heavier kids.
The Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak is a great kayak for smaller paddlers. It features a patented swim-up deck design with molded hand grips to assist re-entry, which is a great safety feature. The kayak also has multiple footrest positions for different size paddlers, which is a nice touch.
The kayak’s foam seat back adjusts for the comfort of the paddler, which is a great feature for kids who need extra support. The kayak is recommended for ages 5 and up with adult supervision, which is a good safety precaution.
Overall, the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak is a great kayak for kids who are just starting out. It’s affordable, reliable, and easy to use. If you’re looking for a kayak that your kid can enjoy for years to come, then the Lifetime Dash 66 Youth Kayak is definitely worth considering.
Pelican Solo Youth Kayak
If you’re looking for a stable and durable kayak for your young ones, the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is a great option.
Pros
- The Twin Tunnel design makes it easy to maneuver and provides ultra stability, making it perfect for beginners.
- The molded carrying handle and lightweight construction make it easy to transport.
- The swim-up rear deck with a handle makes it easy to board from the water.
Cons
- The included paddle is not very sturdy and may need to be replaced.
- The kayak is on the pricier side for a youth kayak.
- The woven handles on the ends may not be very durable.
The Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is designed with young paddlers in mind, with molded footrests and a comfortable paddling position. It also includes a paddle park and a bottle holder in front of the seat, as well as a drain plug to prevent water infiltration.
One great feature of this kayak is the possibility to add the ERGOFORM backrest PS1562, although a riveter is required to install it.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stable and durable youth kayak for your little ones, the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is a great option that will provide hours of fun on the water.
Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak
If you are looking for a youth kayak that is safe, stable, and lightweight, then the Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak is a great option.
Pros
- The kayak is safe due to the additional flotation inside the hull, which makes it easy to drain water out of the scupper holes.
- The twin tunnel hull design provides superior stability for a secure and steady ride, and makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak.
- The kayak is lightweight, making it easy to transport and maneuver.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the drain holes are located under the seat, which can be uncomfortable.
- The kayak is only available in one color (orange).
- The kayak may not be suitable for larger or more experienced paddlers.
If you are looking for a youth kayak that is safe, stable, and lightweight, then the Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak is a great option. The additional flotation inside the hull makes it easy to drain water out of the scupper holes, which provides peace of mind for parents and safety for kids. The twin tunnel hull design provides superior stability for a secure and steady ride, and makes it easy to get in and out of the kayak. The kayak is also lightweight, making it easy to transport and maneuver.
However, some users have reported that the drain holes are located under the seat, which can be uncomfortable. Additionally, the kayak is only available in one color (orange), which may not be to everyone’s taste. Finally, the kayak may not be suitable for larger or more experienced paddlers. Overall, if you are looking for a safe, stable, and lightweight youth kayak, the Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak is definitely worth considering.
evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak
If you are looking for a youth kayak that is stable, lightweight, and durable, the evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak is an excellent choice for children between ages 4 and 12 years.
Pros
- The kayak is made with Water Bear style durability, ensuring it lasts through all those scrapes and bumps, and it comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
- The kayak is versatile, designed to meet the needs of youth, including front storage and a convenient cup holder, making it easy for your child to switch from paddling near the dock to that all-day adventure.
- The kayak has premium ergonomic features, including a padded slip-resistant seat, swim-up deck, paddle rest, and stable hull design with great maneuverability and steady tracking.
Cons
- The kayak is designed for children up to 130 pounds, so it may not be suitable for larger children or young adults.
- The kayak comes in only two colors, Grinnell Glacier Blue and Sunrise Peak Purple, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
- The kayak is relatively expensive compared to other youth kayaks on the market.
The evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak is an excellent investment for parents who want to create unforgettable experiences for their children. The kayak is designed to fit everyone from the smallest kids up to a young adult, ensuring that no one feels left out. The footrests are adjustable to accommodate different leg lengths, and the easily accessible Treasure Tray is the perfect spot for your child to store their rocks and other cool finds. It also doubles as a snack holder for those days of longer exploration.
The kayak’s stable hull design and great maneuverability make it easy for children to paddle, and the swim-up deck allows them to climb back on board with ease if they fall off. The kayak’s front storage with bungee and convenient cup holder makes it easy for children to bring along their favorite snacks and drinks, making it perfect for all-day adventures.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a premium youth kayak that is stable, lightweight, and durable, the evrwild Water Bear Youth Kayak is an excellent choice. With its premium ergonomic features and versatile design, it is sure to provide your child with unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime.
Pelican Solo Youth Kayak
If you’re looking for a safe, stable, and lightweight kayak for your kids, the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is a great choice.
Pros
- With a maximum weight capacity of 100 lbs, this kayak is perfect for kids.
- The twin tunnel hull design offers excellent stability for a secure and steady ride.
- Made of high molecular weight polyethylene, this kayak is exceptionally durable and requires less material to be built.
Cons
- The drainage holes at the bottom of the kayak can let water in, which means you’ll need to make sure your kids wear appropriate gear and that the water is clean.
- The safety flag isn’t very visible and doesn’t offer much protection.
- The kayak is only 6 feet long, which means it may not be suitable for taller or older kids.
The Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is a great choice for parents who want their kids to enjoy kayaking in a safe and stable environment. The kayak’s twin tunnel hull design ensures that your kids won’t tip over or lose control, while the high molecular weight polyethylene material ensures that the kayak will last for years to come.
The kayak also features scupper holes at the bottom that allow water to drain out, which means more safety for the kids and peace of mind for the parents. The kayak comes with a safety flag, but it’s not very visible and doesn’t offer much protection.
One downside of the kayak is that it’s only 6 feet long, which means it may not be suitable for taller or older kids. Additionally, the drainage holes at the bottom of the kayak can let water in, which means you’ll need to make sure your kids wear appropriate gear and that the water is clean.
Overall, the Pelican Solo Youth Kayak is a great choice for parents who want a safe and stable kayak for their kids. It’s lightweight, durable, and easy to use, making it the perfect choice for beginners.
Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler 11’
If you’re looking for a versatile and comfortable kayak that can be used for fishing or leisure, the Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler 11’ is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The pedal drive system is powerful and efficient, making it easy to propel yourself through the water without getting tired.
- The kayak is designed with stability in mind, so you can stand up and fish with confidence.
- The cockpit is spacious and features plenty of storage options, including secure hatches and rod holders.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the kayak can be a bit tippy, especially if you’re not used to standing up on a kayak.
- The instructions for assembly could be clearer, which might make it difficult for some users to put the kayak together.
- The kayak is relatively heavy, which could make it difficult to transport if you don’t have a roof rack or trailer.
Overall, the Reel Yaks Pedal Kayak Fishing Angler 11’ is a great option for anyone who wants a versatile and comfortable kayak that can be used for fishing or leisure. With its powerful pedal drive system, stable design, and spacious cockpit, it’s sure to provide hours of fun and relaxation on the water.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a youth kayak, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for when choosing a youth kayak:
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of the kayak is an important factor to consider, as it will determine how much weight the kayak can support. Make sure to choose a kayak with a weight capacity that is appropriate for the user’s weight and any gear they may be carrying.
Size
Kayaks come in different sizes, so it’s important to choose the right size for the user. A kayak that is too small will be uncomfortable and difficult to maneuver, while a kayak that is too large will be difficult to control. Consider the user’s height and weight when choosing a kayak.
Stability
Stability is another important factor to consider when choosing a youth kayak. A stable kayak will be easier to control and less likely to tip over. Look for kayaks with a wider base and a lower center of gravity for increased stability.
Material
Kayaks can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, fiberglass, and composite materials. Plastic kayaks are typically more affordable and durable, while composite kayaks are lighter and more expensive. Consider your budget and intended use when choosing a material.
Features
There are a variety of features that can be included in a youth kayak, such as adjustable footrests, padded seats, and storage compartments. Consider which features are important to you and the user when choosing a kayak.
By considering these factors, you can choose a youth kayak that is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable to use.