Kayaking can be such an exhilarating experience, but let’s face it – carrying and storing a heavy kayak can be a real hassle. Lucky for us, kayak manufacturers came up with a game-changing idea: folding kayaks!
Now, there are a ton of folding kayak options out there, so choosing the best one can be a bit tricky. That’s why I’m here to share a list of the best folding kayaks with you.
When it comes to choosing a portable kayak, there are a few important factors to consider, like assembly time, weight, storage, and durability. I’ve taken all of these factors into account when reviewing the best portable kayaks out there.
You may have heard of inflatable kayaks, but personally, I think portable kayaks are the way to go. They’re less bulky and more convenient than inflatable kayaks since you don’t have to inflate or deflate them before use.
So, if you’re looking for the best folding kayak for your kayaking adventures, stick with me and I’ll help you find the perfect one!
Top Rated Portable Kayaks
| Kayaks | Brand | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORU KAYAK CoastXT FOLDABLE KAYAK | Oru Kayak | 36 pounds | |
| ORU KAYAK BAYST FOLDABLE KAYAK | Oru Kayak | 28 pounds | |
| ORU KAYAK BEACH LT PORTABLE KAYAK | Oru Kayak | 26 pounds | |
| FOLBOT FULL EXPEDITION PACKAGE | Folbot | 5.9 pounds | |
| ADVANCED ELEMENTS AE1007-R CONVERTIBLE KAYAK | Advanced Elements | 52 pounds | |
| ADVANCED ELEMENTS ADVANCEDFRAME SPORT KAYAK | Advanced Elements | 26 pounds |
THE Best Folding Kayaks
Oru Kayak CoastXT Foldable Kayak
The CoastXT Kayak from Oru Kayak is perfect for serious kayakers who love rough waters. It’s designed to provide premium stability, speed, and handling, ensuring you have a smooth ride even in choppy conditions. The best part? You can set it up in less than 5 minutes!
Since you’ll be folding the kayak for storage, Oru Kayak has tested it extensively for durability, with a rating of up to 20,000 folds. It also meets the recreational vessel requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard.
The CoastXT foldable kayak comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport from one place to another. Plus, it comes with a 12-month warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why this Folding Kayak?
- It’s made of custom polypropylene and rust-resistant hardware.
- You can fold it down to the size of a large suitcase for easy storage.
- It’s treated with 10 years of UV protection to ensure it lasts.
- It has a maximum load capacity of 400 pounds, making it great for solo or tandem rides.
Model & Accessory Specs:
Length: 16’
Weight: 36lbs
Material: Custom polypropylene and rust-resistant hardware
Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs
Oru Kayak BayST Foldable Kayak
The Oru Kayak BayST is one of the best sit-inside folding kayaks available in the market. It’s perfect for beginners as it provides excellent stability and smooth maneuvering in the water. And the best part? You can construct it in under 5 minutes, making it highly practical.
This folding kayak undergoes extensive durability testing, with a rating of up to 20,000 folds and exceeding the recreational vessel requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard. Plus, it’s easy to transport to and from the water.
The BayST kayak also comes with storage space for your extra gear, adjustable footrests, and a padded seat for added comfort during your paddling experience. And if that’s not enough, the company offers a 12-month warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Why this folding Kayak?
- It’s easy to assemble and takes less than 5 minutes.
- There’s storage space for your gear.
- The seats are comfortable, and the footrests are adjustable.
- It’s very lightweight, making it easy to transport.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12’
Weight: 28lbs
Material: Custom polypropylene and rust-resistant hardware
Maximum Capacity: 300 lbs
MYCANOE 2.5 Origami Folding Kayak
The MYCANOE 2.5 Origami folding kayak is a fantastic choice for those looking for a high-quality folding canoe at an affordable price. It takes less than 10 minutes to assemble and under 5 minutes to fold, making it incredibly convenient.
This folding tandem canoe features two seats, making it perfect for couples to enjoy a day out on the water. Despite its foldable design, the canoe is made with custom polypropylene and has a 15-year UV treatment, rated for up to 20,000 folds. Plus, it’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to transport.
This canoe is also TUV performance and quality assurance tests certified, ensuring top-notch quality and performance.
Why this folding Tandem Kayak?
- It has an origami fold design.
- It’s very lightweight and easy to transport.
- It’s UV protected for durability.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 14.5’
Weight: 52lbs
Material: Custom polypropylene
Maximum Capacity: 440lbs
Oru Kayak Beach LT Portable Kayak
The Oru Kayak Beach portable kayak is built to perform and offers excellent performance. It is perfect for calm waters such as rivers, lakes, and bays, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experts. Assembling the boat takes less than 10 minutes, saving you time to invest in paddling.
Despite being a folding kayak, it is highly durable and has passed extensive strength tests. It is also easy to transport to and from the water. The kayak provides great performance and stability while maneuvering in the water.
Why this folding Kayak?
- It takes less than 5 minutes to assemble.
- It is durable and has passed strength tests.
- It is lightweight.
- It is easy to transport.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12’
Weight: 26lbs
Material: Custom polypropylene and rust-resistant hardware
Maximum Capacity: 300lbs
Elevens Cruise Plus Foldable
The Elevens Cruise Plus is a complete package of a folding kayak with many side accessories. It includes a free paddle, life vest, comfortable seat, cup holder, camera mount, and a storage bag, making it a perfect kayak package.
In terms of durability, the Elevens Cruise Plus is made of custom-extruded, doubly-ply FRPP, protecting it from the sun and salt water. Weighing only 30 pounds, it is easy to transport from one place to another. Assembling the kayak will take less than 5 minutes without the need for any tools.
Normally, folding kayaks are not known for their speed, but the Elevens Cruise Plus is a fast portable kayak. The shape and weight distribution of the kayak make it sporty and add to its speed.
Why this Portable Kayak?
- It takes less than 10 minutes to assemble.
- It is durable and has passed strength tests.
- It is lightweight.
- It is easy to transport.
- It comes with many side accessories.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 12.8’
Weight: 30lbs
Material: Custom-extruded, doubly-ply FRPP
Maximum Capacity: 200lbs
Folbot Full Expedition Package
The Folbot foldable kayak is another complete package that comes with many side accessories. The accessory kit is easy to install. Simply place it over your kayak and attach it with fasteners.
The foot rudder can be easily installed at the stern and comes with foot controls. It helps to retract the rudder from damage in shallow water. The full deck attaches to the washboard to keep water out of the cockpit. Additionally, there is a wilderness repair kit included in case of emergencies.
To protect the hull, there is additional padding for the bottom of the keel. If you are willing to spend a good amount of money on your folding kayak, you should definitely consider this one.
Why this folding Kayak?
- It is easy to install.
- It is durable.
- It is lightweight.
- It is water-resistant.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: N/A
Weight: 7.3 lbs
Material: N/A
Maximum Capacity: N/A
Folbot Recreational Citibot Foldable Kayak
The Folbot Recreational Citibot foldable kayak is designed for lightweight recreational paddling in rivers, lakes, and bays. The frame of the Citibot offers great support for tracking, and it takes less than 10 minutes to assemble.
The hull of this kayak is designed to absorb minor shocks and damages. The whole kayak is UV-protected, making it a durable portable kayak that can be folded into a small bag and stored with ease.
Why this folding Kayak?
- It is easy to install.
- It is perfect for lakes, rivers, and bays.
- It is very lightweight.
- It is UV-protected.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 10’
Weight: 7.3lbs
Maximum Capacity: 210lbs
Advanced Elements AE1007-R Convertible Kayak
The Advanced Elements AE1007-R is an inflatable and convertible kayak designed for solo or tandem paddling. Built-in aluminum ribs define the bow and stern for excellent tracking, and the three layers of extreme material make it puncture-resistant.
Assembling the kayak is easy – simply unfold, inflate, and you’re ready to go. The kayak features two adjustable and removable seats, as well as a patented BackBone accessory or rigid high-pressure floors that utilize Drop-stitch technology, enhancing the stability and performance of the kayak. The floor also has a pressure release valve.
Molded handles make it easy to transport from one place to another.
Why this Convertible Kayak?
- It is both convertible and inflatable.
- It is easy to assemble.
- It features Advanced Elements Spring Valve.
- The integrated pressure relief valve in the floor ensures safety and stability.
- The molded handles make it easy to transport.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 15’
Weight: 52 lbs
Maximum Capacity: 550 lbs
Material: Puncture resistant material
Tucktec 10 ft Folding Kayak
Turktec 10ft is a 10ft kayak which can be fold down to very compact and easy to carry size. It takes around 2 minutes to set it up and make it ready for paddling. This kayak locks into shape using six heavy-duty latches.
The Tucktec 10ft is a foldable kayak that can be easily carried due to its compact size. It takes just around 2 minutes to set up with the help of six heavy-duty latches that lock it into shape.
Suitable for both beginners and advanced anglers, the Tucktec 10ft has a wide flat bottom that provides great stability while paddling. It also comes with a tracking fin to enhance maneuverability and ensure a straight glide in the water.
This kayak features a folding seat with backrest for added comfort. It also has foam rails on the side that make it easy to carry to and from the water. The Tucktec 10ft meets the US Coast Guard manufacturing and safety requirements, which should boost consumer confidence.
The kayak is available in five stunning colors, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a folding kayak that delivers an amazing experience.
Why this Convertible Kayak?
- Quick and easy assembly: Takes only around 2 minutes to set up with six heavy-duty latches that lock it into shape.
- Stable and maneuverable: Wide flat bottom and tracking fin ensure stability and easy maneuverability in the water.
- Comfortable seating: Folding seat with backrest and foam rails on the side for easy carrying.
- Compact and portable: Foldable design makes it easy to carry and transport.
- US Coast Guard approved: Meets manufacturing and safety requirements, boosting consumer confidence.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 9ft 6in
Weight: 30lbs
Maximum Capacity: 350lbs
ADVANCED ELEMENTS AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak
The AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak is a beloved portable kayak by Advanced Elements, designed to perform in various water conditions. It features a spacious cockpit that provides ample room for anglers.
With its aluminum bow and stern ribs, this kayak provides better paddling and complete control over the boat. It’s also very fast to inflate and deflate, making it a convenient option.
Despite its lightweight design, the kayak has a high weight capacity of up to 250 lbs. It also has four air chambers as a safety feature in case of emergencies. The experience of paddling this inflatable foldable kayak is similar to a hardshell kayak.
Why choose this Convertible Kayak?
- Spacious cockpit: Provides enough room for the angler.
- Aluminum bow and stern ribs: Enhances paddling and provides better control over the kayak.
- Fast inflation and deflation: Quick and convenient to set up and pack away.
- Lightweight design: Easy to carry and transport.
- High weight capacity: Can hold up to 250 lbs despite its lightweight design.
- Four air chambers: Provides added safety in case of emergencies.
- Universal water condition: Designed to perform well in various water conditions.
- Stability and tracking: Tracks well and provides great stability.
- Similar to a hardshell kayak: Provides a similar paddling experience to a hardshell kayak.
Model & Accessory Specs
Length: 10ft 5in
Weight: 26lbs
Maximum Capacity: 250lbs
How We Selected the Best Folding Kayaks: Our Extensive Research Process
At Kayak Review Online, we take our product recommendations seriously, and our selection of the best folding kayaks was no exception. Our team of experienced kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts spent hours researching and testing different models, looking for the ones that offered the best combination of performance, durability, and convenience.
Checkout: Best Kayaks
- First, we scoured online reviews and ratings from verified buyers and outdoor experts to identify the top folding kayaks on the market. We looked for kayaks that consistently received high marks for quality, performance, and ease of use, as well as those with features that set them apart from the competition.
- Next, we narrowed down our list to the top contenders and conducted hands-on tests to evaluate their performance in real-world conditions. We took each kayak out on the water and tested its stability, maneuverability, and speed, paying close attention to how easy it was to paddle and how comfortable it was to sit in.
- We also looked closely at the build quality and durability of each kayak, examining the materials used, the strength of the seams and joints, and the overall construction. We wanted to make sure that the kayaks we recommended would hold up to regular use and provide reliable performance over time.
- Finally, we considered the overall value of each kayak, taking into account its price, features, and performance relative to other models on the market. We looked for kayaks that offered the best combination of quality and affordability, so that our readers could be confident that they were getting a great value for their money.
- After weeks of research and testing, we narrowed down our list to the best folding kayaks on the market, and we’re confident that our recommendations will help you find the perfect kayak for your needs. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner, these kayaks offer the perfect balance of performance, durability, and convenience, so that you can enjoy your time on the water to the fullest.
Folding Kayak Buyer Guide
Let’s first discuss the basics of buying a folding kayak guide and then move on to the list!
What is a Folding Kayak?
Folding kayaks are built for portability and convenience. As the name suggests, these kayaks can be easily folded and stored into the trunk of your car without requiring a trolley or car rack. They can be folded into a small suitcase size and can be stored in your apartment.
Our expert team suggests that folding kayaks are better than inflatables as they do not require inflating or deflating before use, saving time and energy. Folding kayaks only require unfolding, and you’re good to go – they’re much like hardshells. Most of the foldable kayaks are UV protected, making them durable.
How to Build a Folding Kayak and Pack It!
Building and packing a folding kayak may differ for each kayak type, and all instructions can be found in the instruction manual.
Generally, with folding kayaks, the hull of the kayak is formed by the carrying container. After removing the separate parts like seats, the other part can be folded. To learn how to assemble an Oru kayak, you can watch the small video below.
Step 1: Open the Box & Lay it Out!
First, unbox the kayak and lay out the large section provided. The large section will form the hull of the folding kayak.
Step 2: Install the Footrest
Next, install the footrests, if your kayak has the option. You can check the instruction manual for exact instructions on how to install footrests for your kayak.
Step 3: Close the Bow & Stern
Close the bow by folding the corresponding section upward. Tighten the straps, then fold the sides over the footrest and center near the cockpit. After closing the bow, close the stern by tightening the straps at the end of the stern. If there is a bucklehead, make sure that it is installed before doing the whole stern.
Step 4: Assemble the Cockpit
Now that the hull is complete from the front and back, place the floorboard into the cockpit. It will provide a floor to your kayak and will be given separately. After that, install the seats according to the instructions given in the manual.
Folding or Packing It Back
Once you’re done kayaking or paddling and want to fold or pack it, simply reverse the above steps.
First, remove the seats and flooring, then loosen the straps on the bow and stern, remove the bucklhead and footrest. Next, fold the bow and then the stern section with the help of your knee. Finally, fold both bow and stern together so that they are side by side. Then, use the straps to secure it, and it’s done!
Video: Oru Beach LT Assembly
How To Choose A Folding Kayak
Earlier, portable kayaks used to be very expensive and only a few people could afford them due to the lack of space for storage or racks to transport them. However, with the introduction of folding kayaks, this has changed. Our experienced team of professional kayakers recommends considering a few factors before choosing a folding kayak, which we have discussed below for you:
Purpose & Reason for Buying
Before buying any kayak, you should ask yourself why you need this type of kayak. The same applies to folding kayaks. If you want to use your kayak for recreational paddling and speed and length are not a priority, then a folding kayak is a good option.
However, if you plan to load up your kayak with fishing gear, you need to look for a folding kayak with enough weight capacity. Our team of expert kayakers can help you choose the right folding kayak based on your needs.
How Often Do You Kayak?
It is essential to consider how often you kayak before buying a folding kayak. If you are a frequent paddler and will be folding and unfolding your kayak more often, it may create problems. However, our team can recommend durable folding kayaks that can last longer and withstand frequent folding.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Another factor to consider before getting yourself a folding kayak is the comfort level and ease of use. Our professional kayakers recommend considering comfort as you will be sitting in your kayak for a few hours. Our team can recommend some of the best portable kayaks below that offer utmost comfort level.
Ease of use is another factor to consider. You need to see how easy it is to assemble a kayak and take it for paddling. Our experienced team can help you find a collapsible kayak that takes less than 20 minutes to assemble.
Your Budget
Your budget is an essential factor to consider before making any purchase, and the same goes for folding kayaks. You need to find the best collapsible kayak for your budget that carries all the necessary features. You should opt for a cheap folding kayak if you are new to kayaking and just starting.
Pros and Cons of Portable Kayaks
Pros
- Portable kayaks are easy to store and transport to or from the water.
- They make kayaking accessible to people who do not have garages or stores.
- Folding kayaks are lightweight and do not require additional tools to assemble.
- They are very easy to assemble and take less time than inflatable kayaks.
Cons
- They are more expensive than traditional kayaks.
- They are not as durable as normal hardshell kayaks.
- Assembling can be a tiring work and requires practice to do it faster.
- They are not good for speeding.
- They require more maintenance.
Folding Kayak vs Inflatable Kayak?
There is a bit of confusion among people about folding kayaks and inflatable kayaks. Usually, these two are considered the same, but there are a few fundamental differences that make them unique.
One of the most common differences is that folding kayaks are folded, while inflatable kayaks are inflated. As far as storage is concerned, both kayaks are easy to store. However, they both have their pros and cons.
It takes a little less time to set up a folding vessel compared to an inflated one. Usually, an inflatable kayak takes around 15 to 20 minutes to get ready for paddling, whereas a foldable kayak takes hardly two minutes to set up.
Another point is about drying. You need to dry an inflatable kayak before storing it, which takes some time. Whereas, folding kayaks are dried pretty easily – put them in the sun and use a towel to dry them out.
Mostly, inflatable kayaks are heavier than foldables, making them challenging to transport from one place to another. It is proven that kayaks that can be folded are more comfortable to transport than inflatables.
As far as performance is concerned, foldable vessels are designed for high performance and better efficiency, whereas inflatables are usually designed for spending a day out. However, inflatable kayaks are much more stable in windy weather due to their heavy weight.
Overall, both kayaks have their pros and cons, and it solely depends on your preferences and choices.
Conclusion – Should I buy a Folding Kayak?
In conclusion, if you’re a beginner and speed isn’t your top priority, a folding kayak would be perfect for you. These kayaks are also ideal for paddlers who have limited storage space as they can be easily stored in a small area.
At Kayak Review Online, we understand the importance of investing in a quality kayak, which is why our expert team and professional kayakers have tested all the kayaks listed above. This ensures that we only recommend the best folding kayaks with top-notch features and reliable performance.
We are confident that you will find the perfect portable kayak for your needs from our list. Don’t hesitate to share it with your friends and family who might also be in the market for a new kayak. Happy paddling!
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