Inflatable canoes are a solution for paddlers tight on space. Their packability and portability are unparalleled. When you live in an apartment your inflatable canoe can fit in the closet. They are easy to take along in the trunk of a car or even as a checked bag on a flight.
The inflatables category is fast growing. Water enthusiasts are no longer restricted to heavy-duty whitewater boats or flimsy rubber crafts suited for pools.
There is a range of blow-up canoe options, from recreational canoes to boats for remote expeditions.
New technology such as drop stitching allows the inflatables to take more complex shapes, and they are made of materials durable enough to withstand heavy use. Used inflatable canoes may be available, but there are unique factors to consider when purchasing them. B
In this article we explain these, and other tips for buying your first or next inflatable canoe…
How to Choose Your Inflatable Canoe
Below is our list of points to think about prior to getting an inflatable canoe.
Inflatable Canoe vs Hard Shell Canoes
You first have to decide whether an inflatable canoe is the right choice for you, or if you would be better off with a hardshell canoe.
Inflatable canoes are best suited to recreational paddlers. Some of the models on our list can be inflated to a level that is close to what a hard-shelled canoe would have, yet they do not have the same level of direction and sturdiness as a plastic boat.
If you are looking to embark on white water excursions, or to go on adventures in challenging terrain, our selection of lightweight tough canoes can provide a vessel suitable for any type of weather.
One of the main advantages of inflatable canoes is that they can be easily put away and moved around. It will be much simpler to get to the water when you can let the air out of the canoe and store it in the back of your car, rather than having to lift it onto the car roof.
It is much more convenient to access the water close to you, thus enhancing the possibility of having a productive day.
Inflated Size and Capacity
When you are investigating inflatable canoes, the amount of space they require is an essential factor to consider. It is essential to bear in mind that the foremost qualities of your canoe are how it operates when it is filled with air.
Ensure that your canoe is sufficiently spacious to accommodate the number of riders you want. It is essential to find a canoe that will not only accommodate everyone, but also has a significant weight capacity so it does not become overloaded.
Canoes that are bigger in size usually move more quickly on the water, whereas smaller ones may be more manageable and simpler to direct. The type of inflatable canoe you select will be based on your plans for the day – whether you want to take a leisurely cruise or go on a lengthy excursion across the lake.
Packed Size and Weight
It is probable that you already possess a sense of where you would prefer to keep your canoe. You are likely familiar with the dimensions of the trunk of your car or the back of the truck you’re looking to use to move your canoe.
Evaluate the package size of the canoe you desire to purchase to be sure it will fit into the area you want it to occupy.
Remember weight, too. Despite the fact that a canoe can be compressed into a relatively small size, it may still be too large to fit by yourself into the trunk of your car. If you go canoeing, someone most likely will be on hand to aid you in transporting your canoe, though you may need to fetch it out of the locker yourself.
Make sure to not overlook oars, air pumps, and life jackets when you’re planning a place to keep your canoe.
Inflation Time
Filling your canoe with air to the stated amount is essential if you want it to work correctly. Many inflatable canoes include a pump, but the effectiveness and rate of inflation can vary. If your pump isn’t working properly, you could be very tired by the time you are ready to use the water.
Discover how much time it takes to fill your canoe with air and include that in your day’s schedule. It takes only 10 minutes or less to blow up a modern canoe to its optimal air pressure.
Spending less time inflating your canoe will give you more opportunities to go out and enjoy it on the water.
Use
What do you want your canoe for?
Various models of canoes prove to be beneficial for navigating through diverse types of water. Canoes are great for extended excursions, sailing down calm streams, fishing expeditions, and gently gliding across a lake under the warm sun.
Consider what your purpose is for using a canoe and make sure that the one you choose is appropriate for that. Expert canoes can be costly, but if you require their capabilities, then the cost is justified.
3 Best Inflatable Canoes
1. Sea Eagle TC16 – Best Overall
Inflated Length: 16 ft. (4.88 m) Inflated Width: 38 in. (97 cm) Weight: 64 lbs. (29 kg) Capacity: 915 lbs. (415 kg)
When it comes to things that can be inflated, not many businesses stand up in comparison to Sea Eagle. The Sea Eagle TC16 was one of the pioneering canoes on the market with complete drop stitch engineering, enabling you to blow it up to 15 PSI.
This construction under intense pressure gives the sensation and stableness of an inflexible canoe but is much easier to haul around.
The Sea Eagle TC16 is designed with a molded plastic bow and stern to help make it easier to maneuver and keep it on course. Along with having the ability to remove the back skeg, these items provide you with the highest level of control when out on the water.
Due to these aspects, the hull is kept as a level, flat base which enables you to briefly reach 5 mph with the TC16.
This TC16 has the ability to hold around three people with additional room for their gear. It can comfortably fit all three adults. The chambers that inflate are secure and keep the canoe from becoming submerged in the event of flooding, and make it simple to get back in the canoe if you flip it over.
The TC16 is great for a variety of activities, including long adventures on the open seas and Rapids of up to Class IV.
Pros:
- Versatile inflatable canoe
- High-pressure design
- Rigid bow and stern to enhance tracking
Cons:
2. Sevylor Adventure Plus Inflatable Canoe – Best on a Budget
Inflated Length: 12 ft. (3.68 m) Inflated Width: 34 in. (86 cm) Weight: 33 lbs. (15 kg) Capacity: 441 lbs. (200 kg)
The Sevylor Adventure Plus inflatable canoe is a great choice for a fun time together as a family. The construction of this PVC canoe has multiple sections which not only improve the strength and effectiveness but also provide increased safety while navigating the water.
Inflating items is a breeze with Boston valves, allowing for more time to be spent in the water.
Sevylor is well-informed when it comes to creating enjoyable inflatables. The seating has a polyester covering and can be adjusted for maximum comfort, so you can stay out on the water as long as you desire.
This canoe is perfect for a family outing, as it has enough space to hold two adults and one child. You can store a limited amount of belongings in the front and back of the vessel for longer outings, which can be securely kept thanks to the elastic cord.
The Sevylor Adventure Plus can be inflated with less air pressure than canoes constructed with drop stitch technology. The extra height of the sides helps maintain your balance on the water and the cushion-like material of the chambers result in a cozier ride and is less likely to tear due to rocks, even though it might lack a little agility.
If you develop a hole in your canoe, the pockets can all be swapped out, so you aren’t required to totally redo the vessel.
Pros:
- Budget friendly
- Replaceable I-beam construction
- Comfortable design
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Lower pressure means a less responsive performance
- Heavily affected by wind
- Low capacity
3. Aire Traveler – Best for Hunting and Fishing
Inflated Length: 15 ft. 1 in. (4.6 m) Inflated Width: 47 in. (119 cm) Weight: 72 lbs. (33 kg) Capacity: 800 lbs. (363 kg)
This canoe was designed specifically with touring in mind; it’s low profile means more stability and makes it simpler to steer. A 15 ft. This canoe features a 1 inch long keel line, a customized hull design and shape which combine to offer good stability and direction when moving across the water.
As well as a top speed that is relatively high. This canoe has been made to work effectively no matter if you’re on flat water or a white water river – the thick chambers are tough enough to deal with anything you may encounter, including jagged rocks.
This inflatable has become a favorite amongst anglers and hunters due to its low profile, secure build, and sizable carrying capacity. This canoe provides enough interior room to store all of your supplies.
And it is built so that your catch can be easily taken in and out from the sides of the boat without concern for the inflatable chambers.
If paddling isn’t preferred, options include rowing with the Aire Traveler or installing a trolling motor to the back of the fixed transom. The seating can be easily shuffled based on the type of propulsion that is used, along with the number of people paddling and the equipment that needs to be taken.
Pros:
- Low profile and highly stable
- Easy to paddle
- Great for hunting or fishing
- Versatile design
Cons:
Be sure to check out our comprehensive Guide and Reviews of the Best Fishing Canoes.
