6 Paddle Kayaks for People Who Haven’t Kayaked Before
The kayak market has absolutely boomed in recent years. Perhaps it can be explained by a minimalist mentality that has spread through a younger generation of adventurers. Or maybe it simply comes down to the collective improvement of offerings. Either way, more paddle kayaks are available to buy, and more people are buying them.
First-time kayak buyers may find the options overwhelming. With the right direction, there are loads of excellent beginner-friendly options, all of which prioritize stability, comfort, and ease of use. These six kayaks are forgiving for those still getting the hang of paddling, and lightweight enough to carry out of the water without hassle.
Pelican Argo 100X
MSRP: $339.99
Casual paddlers looking for a lightweight, easy-to-carry kayak that’s great for calm rivers should check out the Pelican Argo 100X. It is ideal for first-timers who want a simple, care-free experience on the water. Paddlers get both stability and comfort. But more than anything else, its lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to transport.
Many new kayakers find themselves limited in this department, but the Argo 100X weighs a mere 36 pounds. Most people can easily throw the Argo over their shoulder and walk it down to the water. My first paddle kayak was a Pelican Bounty 100X Angler, which was essentially the same kayak with various fishing accessories. I stored it in my apartment storage closet and transported it in the bed of my Ford Ranger. I could access any water I could safely walk to.
The Argo 100X also has a spacious cockpit and adjustable footrests that accommodate a variety of body types. And a shallow hull and high stability help prevent tipping.
Specs
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 28 inches
- Weight: 36 pounds
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Activity type: Recreational
- Cockpit type: Sit-inside
Old Town Heron 9XT
MSRP: $649.99
Kayakers who want a comfortable, versatile option for both leisure paddles and mild water conditions should look at the Old Town Heron 9XT. This 9-and-a-half-footer is great for building confidence. It offers a balance of comfort, stability, and performance at a reasonable price for any vessel that boasts the Old Town name.
It features an ergonomic seat and adjustable footrests, which make long paddles much easier for novice users. And it’s one of the more compact paddle kayaks on the market, so it is particularly easy to navigate.
Its single-layer polyethylene material will keep it in working condition for years to come. You won’t need to upgrade after only a year or two. It also comes with two fishing rod holders.
Specs
- Length: 9 feet, 6 inches
- Width: 28.5 inches
- Weight: 40 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Activity type: Recreational
- Cockpit type: Sit-inside
Perception Sound 10.5
MSRP: $579.99
Are you looking for a bit more space? Do you have a larger build, or do you just want more comfort for longer jaunts? Check out the Perception Sound 10.5. Known for its stability and user-friendliness, it makes balancing a cinch as it glides through calm waters without issue. The larger cockpit and built-in cup holder only add to its relaxed appeal.
The Sound boasts a wealth of features, from two molded-in rod holders and a dashboard with mounting points for accessories to a spacious rear storage area with bungee cords. Aside from possibly being somewhat limited on rougher waters, the Sound offers beginners value and versatility.
Specs
- Length: 10 feet, 6 inches
- Width: 29.5 inches
- Weight: 46 pounds
- Weight capacity: 335 pounds
- Activity type: Fishing
- Cockpit type: Sit-inside
Sun Dolphin Aruba 10
MSRP: $229.99
Another lightweight, easy-to-maneuver option, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 was built for the beginner kayaker. The open cockpit facilitates quick entry and exit, while the adjustable seat back preserves comfort for longer days on the water. But perhaps its most redeeming feature is its price tag: an MSRP of only $229.99. If you’re a first-timer who doesn’t want to fully commit to a pricier option, the Aruba 10 is plenty stable and durable enough to get you started.
Features include a padded seat and protective thigh pads, a storage compartment for extra gear, a paddle holder, adjustable foot braces, and a water bottle holder. When money is the only thing holding you back, this is a legitimate compromise among paddle kayaks.
Specs
- Length: 9 feet, 6 inches
- Width: 29 inches
- Weight: 40 pounds
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Activity type: Recreational
- Cockpit type: Sit-inside
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100
MSRP: $649.99
Its user-friendly features make it a viable option for any beginner. But the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 shines for anglers who want to get on the water affordably. Built with durability and fishing-specific features, this sit-on-top kayak offers multipurpose versatility that can handle a variety of water conditions.
A padded seat and adjustable footrests add comfort. A stable, flat bottom with deep tracking channels and stability chine rails provide excellent stability.
The only area in which it can’t match some of the other paddle kayaks on this list is its weight. It tips the scales at 51 pounds, which might be too heavy for some kayakers. But the blow-molded, high-density polyethylene, UV-protected construction makes it a tank when it comes to tackling the elements. It also features rod holders, shock cord straps, and two storage hatches.
Specs
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 31 inches
- Weight: 51 pounds
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Activity type: Fishing/Recreational
- Cockpit type: Sit-on-top
Vibe Sea Ghost 110
MSRP: $1,075.99
The Vibe Sea Ghost 110 is one of the stronger options on the market for new kayakers who want a more advanced option without sacrificing beginner-friendly features. Its larger size provides more space, albeit at the expense of increased weight.
While perhaps being a little more difficult to transport, this kayak can handle rougher waters with increased stability. Plus, it is a top-notch fishing kayak for beginners willing to spend a little more money. A toe-controlled rudder and room to stand up make this the most budget-friendly option for paddlers who want to take an extra step with a fishing kayak.
Specs
- Length: 11 feet, 6 inches
- Width: 33 inches
- Weight: 62 pounds
- Weight capacity: 425 pounds
- Activity type: Fishing
- Cockpit type: Sit-on-top
Final Thoughts on Paddle Kayaks
Where you begin your kayaking journey depends entirely on where you want to take it. If you simply want to get out on the water here and there for quick runs, you can spend a little and get value. For those who eventually want to take their kayaking to the next level—especially if that includes fishing—one of the more advanced paddle kayaks could be an inevitable necessity.
No matter where you start, though, make sure to choose a kayak that matches your goals. Less time fighting against the wrong boat means enjoying more time on the water.
David Schlake