Skatinger
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 11'63" long) to get you on the water.
Are Inflatable Kayaks & Paddleboards Any Good?
Inflatable kayaks and paddleboards used to have a reputation as pool toys - but modern drop-stitch designs pump up rigid and perform genuinely well. So are they any good? For most paddlers, yes. Here's an honest look at when inflatable beats hardshell.
The honest answer
For the vast majority of recreational paddlers, a quality inflatable kayak or paddleboard is excellent. Modern drop-stitch construction pumps up rock-hard for a rigid, stable ride, they're durable and forgiving, and - crucially - they pack into a backpack, so you don't need a garage or roof bars. That convenience is why inflatables now dominate the market.
When inflatable is the right call
Choose inflatable if you lack storage space, don't have (or want) roof bars, travel to different spots, or want an affordable, forgiving craft that's easy to carry to the water. For lakes, canals, calm coast and touring, a good inflatable performs well and is far more practical to own than a hardshell. For most people, it's simply the sensible choice.
When hardshell still wins
Hardshell still has the edge for serious performance - racing, whitewater, rough sea, or anyone wanting maximum stiffness and speed. A rigid hull is faster and more responsive, and there's no pumping up. But it needs storage space, roof bars and more outlay. Unless you're paddling seriously or competitively, an inflatable's convenience usually wins.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Intex Explorer K2
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable kayak, 2-person) to get you on the water.
#3 
Goosehill Inflatable SUP
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard) to get you on the water.
#4 
Trail Portofino
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 10ft long) to get you on the water.
#5 
Panana Inflatable SUP
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 10ft long) to get you on the water.
#6 
NACATIN 12' Inflatable Stand up Paddle Board Paddleboard
A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 366cm long) to get you on the water.
Frequently asked questions
Are inflatable kayaks and paddleboards any good?
Yes - modern inflatable kayaks and paddleboards with drop-stitch construction pump up rigid and stable, perform well for recreational paddling, and pack into a bag for easy storage and transport. For most people they're the practical, affordable choice. Serious racers and whitewater paddlers may prefer hardshell, but for calm water and touring, inflatables are excellent.
Do inflatable paddleboards feel stable?
Yes - a quality drop-stitch inflatable board, pumped to its recommended pressure, feels rigid and stable underfoot, close to a hardshell for recreational use. Width matters most for stability, so a wide all-round board feels very steady. Properly inflated, a good board won't feel wobbly or bouncy.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Skatinger (our score 9.6/10) - A practical, packable kayak or paddleboard (inflatable paddleboard, 11'63" long) to get you on the water..