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10 Awesome Kayaks for Kids in 2024

last updated Jun 08, 2019

With Moana and Pocahontas leading the way, canoes, kayaks, and boats seem pretty shiny to young eyes. And many of these activities are actually good for them, as well. Kayaking especially is a fun, family-friendly activity that requires children to exercise focus, balance, coordination, and muscular endurance, as they paddle their way through the water. Solid kayaks as well as inflatable kayaks can be safe, budget-friendly options, depending on the specific features you’re looking for. We think you’ll find all of the kayaks on our top ten list to be waves and waves of fun, so get out there and start paddling!

In a Hurry? The test winner after 18 hrs of research

icon
Intex Challenger K2
98/100 our score
Safety
99
Ease of Use
99
Durability
99
Physical Development
95
Intex Challenger K2
Why is it better?

Can be deflated for compact travel

Two riders can paddle at one time

One seat removes

Deluxe paddle included

Maximum weight of 400 pounds

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Intex Challenger K2
Test Winner: Intex Challenger K2
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
43
Researched Sources
Reviews Considered
387
Reviews Considered
Hours Researching
18
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
17
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Lyndsey Fosher:

for this update we added more information about how kayaking can be incredibly beneficial for your children to enjoy. Some of the kayaks on our top ten list can even feature 1-2 people which is a great bonding tool. For any other information you may need be sure to check out our FAQ. We’re sure you will find the perfect Kayak for your family on our top ten list above.

Sorting Options
Safety Ease of Use Durability Physical Development By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Safety
99 %
Ease of Use
99 %
Durability
99 %
Physical Development
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$112.90
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
Safety
99 %
Ease of Use
98 %
Durability
98 %
Physical Development
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$90.18
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Safety
99 %
Ease of Use
97 %
Durability
98 %
Physical Development
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Safety
98 %
Ease of Use
96 %
Durability
97 %
Physical Development
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Safety
97 %
Ease of Use
95 %
Durability
96 %
Physical Development
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$178.98
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Safety
96 %
Ease of Use
94 %
Durability
95 %
Physical Development
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$178.98
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Safety
95 %
Ease of Use
93 %
Durability
94 %
Physical Development
86 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$142.97
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Safety
94 %
Ease of Use
92 %
Durability
93 %
Physical Development
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$710.00
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.5
Safety
93 %
Ease of Use
91 %
Durability
92 %
Physical Development
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link
$449.99
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.3
Safety
92 %
Ease of Use
90 %
Durability
91 %
Physical Development
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (28.03.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Kayaks Reviewed

1. Intex Challenger K2

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Intex Challenger K2
Amazon Link
Safety
99
Ease of Use
99
Durability
99
Physical Development
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$112.90

Can be deflated for compact travel

Two riders can paddle at one time

One seat removes

Deluxe paddle included

Maximum weight of 400 pounds

Customer support appears difficult to contact if there is an issue or defect

The removable seat really sells this one for us. It means that you can go out together, send siblings on a wild ride, or remove one of the seats and have enough storage room to enjoy a quiet afternoon with a cooler of drinks and snacks.

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Safety

Kayaks allow children responsibility and independence while teaching them focus, navigation, coordination, and balance.

Ease of Use

A high capacity pump makes it easy to inflate, and a repair patch kit means you don’t need to freak out or send it back every time there’s a little snag. This inflatable kayak features two seats, one of which is removable to give you more storage space. The nose of the kayak is equipped with netting, and it can deflate and compress to store easily in any size car. Even given how compact it can be, there’s plenty of spacious room for paddlers and their supplies, even when both seats are intact. If you’re traveling without the resources to lug around a hard-side kayak, this truly is a quality alternative.

Durability

Made from puncture-proof vinyl, the Intex Challenger K2 is a streamlined design meant for longevity and ease, as it’s modeled to be easy to paddle and steer. The vivid colors make it easy to spot out on the water. Two 86 inch aluminum paddles allow users to navigate their way through the waves. It’s UV damage-resistant, so feel free to soak up the sun, and can hold up 400 pounds as a maximum weight limits

Physical Development

This kayak can fit up to two people in. Your children will be able to strengthen their hand-eye coordination skills, the power of teamwork, and strengthen all of their muscles as well. This is a positive way for your children to bond and relax outdoors as well.

2. Intex Challenger K1

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
Intex Challenger K1
Amazon Link
Safety
99
Ease of Use
98
Durability
98
Physical Development
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$90.18

Great for travel

Easy to store

Includes a high power pump

Features a net for storage

Made of durable materials

Does not come with a skeg

The material its made of is extremely durable and won't tear or rip easily if it rides over rocks. Kids really love the design and have a lot of fun in it. It holds air securely for long periods of time.

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Safety

The design is bright and aesthetically pleasing and has ropes one both sides making for easy transport. There is a cargo net that can be used to store things necessary for a day out in the sun.

Ease of Use

For hassle-free inflation, there is a high powered pump and two air valves. For assistance with maintenance, there is also a repair kit included. In addition, this kit comes complete with a quality oar, made of high-grade aluminum.

Durability

This inflatable and durable kayak is perfect for travel and ideal for storage. It can be folded up or flattened to fit into any space. There are several great perks that come with this kayak to make for quick inflation and easy maintenance

Physical Development

This kayak is great for your child to learn how to balance in the water as well as strengthen their arm muscles. Your child will be able to exercise while also having fun which is the best part about kayaking as well. Not only is this activity soothing but it’s great for your child to not only connect with nature but they’ll be able to have a healthy lifestyle as well.

3. Sun Dolphin Aruba 10-Foot

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Sun Dolphin Aruba 10-Foot
Amazon Link
Safety
99
Ease of Use
97
Durability
98
Physical Development
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Available in six colors

Adjustable footrest

High back support

Features several storage storage options

Adjustable seat

Does not come with a paddle

The colors that this epic kayak comes in are bold and bright. Available in six different colors or any young kayakers favorite color. You will easily be able to pot this kayak on the water while you float with your kid.

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Safety

For kayakers who have a bit more of a history with the popular sport, the Aruba Sit-In Kayak is a great upgrade. This kayak is just slightly over ten feet which makes it rather large and possibly difficult for very young children to control, but for pre-teens and teenagers, it should be no problem. With a little experience, they’ll be paddling their hearts out in no time

Ease of Use

This kayak comes in several different colors to make it a little more personal and fun for the kids using it, and even includes drink holders and food storage for those long trips on the river. The seat and backing are padded and can be adjusted to fit the kayaker which makes it a great option for those who find other kayaks uncomfortable over long periods of time. The kayak also has handles for carrying, which makes it perfect for long-distance trips where you might have to walk a long way to reach the waterway.

Durability

Due to this kayak’s larger size, it really makes a great option for an experienced kayaker. It could be difficult for beginners to learn how to paddle on something so big but will be easy for kids who already have the experience to steer and they’ll appreciate the extra room.

Physical Development

This adjustable kayak is great for children to enjoy the outside world. Your child will be able to work on strengthening their muscles as well as their hand-eye coordination skills. Your child will also have to work on their balance skills as well.

4. Sun Dolphin Camino SS

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Sun Dolphin Camino SS
Amazon Link
Safety
98
Ease of Use
96
Durability
97
Physical Development
89
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Available in three colors

Features an open cockpit

Made of lightweight materials

Can support up to one hundred and forty pounds

Has a moldable foot rest

The seat is not padded

The durable construction is meant to provide your child with ample space and room to grow. There is a whole world to explore, the sit on as opposed to sit-in kayak provides you with more to see. Generally, the sides may cause some blockage to see into the water. This style kayak is featured with a sleeker design to provide your child with a bit more mature effect.

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Safety

The durable construction is meant to provide your child with ample space and room to grow. There is a whole world to explore, the sit on as opposed to sit-in kayak provides you with more to see.

Ease of Use

This solid kayak is meant to be sat one as opposed to in. The style of design provides your child with the opportunity to improve balance at a more rapid rate. In addition, the open space seating will enhance their experience in becoming one with nature. It is available in three eye-pleasing colors.

Durability

Generally, the sides may cause some blockage to see into the water. This style kayak is featured with a sleeker design to provide your child with a bit more mature effect.

Physical Development

Your child will be able to get inspired and connected with nature. Being able to have fun while exercising is a great way for your child to enjoy being outside during these beautiful sunny days. This is also a great way for your child to get on the water and work on strengthening their muscles.

5. Lifetime Youth Wave

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Lifetime Youth Wave
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Ease of Use
95
Durability
96
Physical Development
88
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$178.98

Ergonomic design for any water type

Lightweight

Includes a kayak paddle

Features hand grip and “swim-up” back

Holds up to 130lbs

Might be scary to kids who are not comfortable swimming  with no sides

Hard to paddle in rough water due to shape

You’d think having such a unique design would make this kayak somewhat of a fail, but it actually functions very well as a kayak! We love that it can be taken to a variety of different places and paddled just like any other kayak while still offering various options.

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Safety

You’ll notice right off the bat that this kayak has a very unique design. The Youth Wave Kayak is specifically designed for kids who love to ride waves whether they’re at the beach or the lake. It slightly resembles a surfboard with raised sides and functions in very much the same way; it’s essentially a sit-down paddle board. Kids are able to sit inside the Kayak and paddle from either side with the main difference being no holding cabin where the seat of a kayak would normally be. This is great for kids who are excellent swimmers and love being up on the waves but can’t surf.

Ease of Use

The kayak is lightweight with a weight limit of 130lbs which makes it perfect for kids aged five and up (with parental supervision, of course). Its ergonomic design makes it great for shallow water as it bobs amongst the waves, and kids are able to control their direction with the use of a kayak paddle. It’s even great for having a lazy river day and just floating along calm waters to enjoy a sunny day. The back of this kayak features a “swim up” design which makes it easier for kids to jump back on if they fall off, as well as finger grips on the side so they can hold fast to the kayak itself.

Durability

The versatile design of this kayak makes it perfect for the beach, rivers, streams, and lakes, and allows kids to use it in a number of different ways. Whether they’re using it as a kayak and actively padding, floating along on calmer waters, or wave-jumping with it, they’ll have a blast knowing they’re safe with the perfect floating device.

Physical Development

A positive way for your child to help strengthen their muscles and their hand-eye coordination skills is just with kayaking. Your child will be able to work on their focusing skills and be relaxed as well.

6. Youth Wave with Paddle

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Youth Wave with Paddle
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Ease of Use
94
Durability
95
Physical Development
87
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$178.98

Manufacturer offers a five year warranty

Features a sloped back end

Available in two colors

Capable of supporting up to one hundred and thirty pounds

Features molded finger handles

May not be durable or suitable for rough water conditions

This kayak is a great starter kayak for children ages five and up. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to transport and maneuver in the water. The materials comprising this vessel are high-quality polyethylene. It is available for purchase in bright green and orange. The colors are both aesthetically pleasing and have an added safety feature. They will be easy to spot from off in the distance so you can keep an eye on your little one, even if they drift down the river by themselves.

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Safety

Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice durability for safety. This vessel is designed to provide your child with a stable ride. There is a paddle included with this product so, upon arrival, you’ll have everything you need for a day of fun.

Ease of Use

This lightweight product is only eighteen pounds and comes with finger grips so it is easy to transport. It’s designed for children ages five and up and tops out around one hundred and thirty pounds. With multiple footrest positions, this product can be used for a few years. The manufacturer offers a five year limited warranty to give you added peace of mind. It is available in both orange and green. Designed with a sloped back and swim-up step it will be easy for your child to climb in and out of, even while they are in the water. There are also holes so water can easily drain to prevent the vessel from sinking.

Durability

This kayak is made of high-quality polyethylene. It’s lightweight at only eighteen pounds. Appropriate for ages five and up with a maximum weight of one hundred and thirty pounds.

Physical Development

A wonderful way for families to bond is by kayaking. Your children will love being on the water and getting connected with nature. This is a great way for your child to stay entertained while also strengthening their muscles.

7. Intex Explorer

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Intex Explorer
Amazon Link
Safety
95
Ease of Use
93
Durability
94
Physical Development
86
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$142.97

Affordable

Composed of puncture-resistant vinyl

Designed with a removable skeg

Includes oars and air pump

Skeg may pop out on its own

The adjustable seats make it easy for people of all ages and sizes to ride comfortably. The seats can also be removed so you can stretch out and enjoy a relaxing ride down the river.

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Safety

The Intex Explorer inflatable two-person kayak makes a family day out on the lake much more fun. Both inflatable seats have backrests and can be adjusted to provide a comfortable ride for people of all sizes.

Ease of Use

Being inflatable it is lightweight and compact so your family can easily take it out to any lake or river. The Boston valves on each side make inflating and deflating quick and easy. If you’re looking for a chill day out on a lazy river take the seats out, lay back and relax.

Durability

There is plenty of space in the cockpit that can be used for storage or extra legroom. The bright yellow color makes this kayak easy to spot on rough or calm waters. Composed of heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl, this kayak is built to last. The removable skeg makes it easy for anyone to direct the kayak. With your purchase, you will also receive two 86-inch aluminum oars and an Intex air pump.

Physical Development

Your child will be able to work on their hand-eye coordination skills and enjoy the great outdoors. Not only will they be able to learn about different directions, but your child will be able to also strengthen their arm muscles.

8. Advanced Elements AE1012-R AdvancedFrame

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Advanced Elements AE1012-R AdvancedFrame
Amazon Link
Safety
94
Ease of Use
92
Durability
93
Physical Development
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$710.00

Multi-layer construction gives this kayak a high level of durability

Highly portable

Quick and easy to set up

Lightweight and easy to maneuver

Not ideal for longer trips

The multi-layer construction gives this kayak a high level of durability while also having the ability to fold up for easy storage. Set up is so quick and easy that you will be out on the water soon after unfolding it.

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Safety

The Advanced Elements Kayak is perfect for those who do not necessarily have the space for large fiberglass kayak. This inflatable and foldable kayak hybrid is great for people of all ages. Setting up the kayak is extremely easy and takes less than ten minutes. Just unfold it and fill the chambers with air. The high back seat provides a comfortable ride for your child. Along with the mesh pocket on the back of the seat, there is plenty of storage space for whatever things your child might need to bring out on the water.

Ease of Use

The molded rubber handles make it easy for you to carry the kayak in and out of the water. The built-in tracking fin allows this kayak to glide smoothly through the water. While this is not a hardshell kayak, once it is inflated it feels just as firm as one. After a day out on the lake, just deflate the kayak, dry it out and fold it back up for easy storage.

Durability

Designed with multiple layers of material this kayak is highly durable and will survive countless trips out on the water. The red and grey color scheme gives this kayak a sleek look and will make every rider look like a pro.

Physical Development

A great way for your child to get outside and away for those screens is by kayaking. Not only will your child love being outside with nature, but this is also a great bonding tool as well. Your child will love strengthening their muscles in a positive way.

9. Lifetime Tamarack Angler

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.5
Lifetime Tamarack Angler
Amazon Link
Safety
93
Ease of Use
91
Durability
92
Physical Development
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$449.99

Flip Resistant

Designed with multiple footrest positions

T-handles make it easy to carry

Includes two 6-inch storage compartments

It is not made for riders to stand and fish

The rod holders will give your little fisherman the opportunity to relax while waiting for a fish to bite. When it is time to reel in their catch, the flat bottom eliminates any rocking and provides your child with the stability they need to lock in their catch.

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Safety

With two flush-mounted fishing rod holders, your child can sit back and relax as they wait for their big catch. The t-handles on the front and back of the kayak make it easy for you to transport this kayak in and out of the water. The flat bottom makes it practically impossible to flip the kayak.

Ease of Use

If your child loves to spend a day out of the lake fishing then the Lifetime Tamarack kayak is perfect for them. Designed with multiple footrest positions, riders of different sizes can sit comfortably

Durability

Composed of a UV-protected high-density polyethylene, this kayak is durable and its colors will not fade in the sun. The adjustable seat is padded for extra comfort. The two 6-inch storage compartments, located in the rear and center, make it easy for your child to keep their supplies at arms reach. Along with this fishing kayak, you will also receive a paddle.

Physical Development

Your child will be able to learn about direction, teamwork and work on their muscles. This is a great confidence booster as well for your children as they’ll be able to kayak and do this sport on their own. Not only is it a healthy way for your child to be entertained but it will get your child outside and moving.

10. Vibe Skipjack

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.3
Vibe Skipjack
Amazon Link
Safety
92
Ease of Use
90
Durability
91
Physical Development
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Nine feet long; spacious

Plenty of storage

Comfortable cushioned seat

Holds up to 300 pounds

Station to park oar so it doesn’t tip overboard

The seat sometimes slides, even when adjusted to the tightest strap

It’s a sturdy boat, that’s for sure. This kayak can hold a good amount of weight, and the solid structure means you don’t have to worry about snagged or sun-weakened vinyl.

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Safety

The Vibe Skipjack is equipped with several key features. It is a nine foot, 46-pound kayak designed to be especially useful when fishing. A journey paddle lets you steer your ship as you choose, and five capped rod holders and mounting points lie flush and ready to hold all of your accessories. There are stations to park your paddle when it’s not in use, preventing lost paddles in the water. Three sealed hatches and a bungee rear tank give you plenty of space for storage

Ease of Use

Five easy grip carry handles make this easy to transport to and from racks, cars, and shores. It is meant to hold one rider at a time, so it might be best suited for older kids who have something of a command of the kayak, but the weight capacity taps out at 300 pounds, so you could also paddle with a little one onboard in your lap, as long as they know to sit still and not rock the boat. The seat is cushioned, giving you a nice, comfortable station from which to enjoy the water and open skies.

Durability

Kayaks give children a chance to practice responsibility, balance, coordination, and leadership skills. This one-seater especially can be used for little ones who still need to sit in a lap or older children who might be ready to go out on their own.

Physical Development

Kayaking can be a helpful relaxation skill. It also will be able to strengthen their muscles as well as work on their hand-eye coordination skills. This kayak will also help teach your child about a sense of direction and being on the water. This is a great way to get your child excited about exercising and outside.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Safety

Always keep in mind the importance of safety and knowing your child’s physical abilities. It is not recommended your little one be expected to paddle through wild rapids on their own. The water can be a bit intimidating for some, so encouraging your child to develop self- confidence in the water is important. This feeling will develop and become stronger over time with more exposure to the water. Until that time comes, and even after, you want to know that your child is using a product designed to provide them with the utmost in safety. These vessels are highly rated in several aspects and designed to provide a range of safety features.

Kayaks are primarily built for speed. If you have a canoe, then that would be the equivalent of a sport utility vehicle. However, if you’re thinking of an F1 racer in the water, there can only be a kayak. As such, one of the principal considerations for our choice of the best youth kayak is the overall design of the hull. It should be designed in such a way that it can slice through water with relative ease, like a hot knife slicing through butter. Equally important is the stability of the platform. We are particularly aware that some form of stability is ultimately lost with each increment in speed. So, we may be giving you a really high speed water vessel but if it cannot maintain stability even at such speeds, then we’d rather choose one that is not as fast but is stable enough to keep your child safe.

Ease of Use

In addition to safety, these kayaks are designed for speed and ease. As your child is starting out on the water, understanding how to maneuver a toy this size can be tricky. These are great starter toys ideal for helping your child gain confidence in the water. They are easy to control and have added features making it easy for you to help if they get too tired. The ability to easily control your vessel gives you more mobility and speed, helping you get through more river. With added speed comes the ability to prepare for more challenging adventures in the future.

Durability

We also considered the weight of the youth kayak. This was a very important consideration since kayaks are especially built for lone riders, adventurers who would rather go it alone. That being said, it is important that these small streamlined boats are lightweight enough to be carried or even dragged from the vehicle and onto the water by an average kiddo. Playing a part in the lightweight design of the small boat is the choice of materials used in its construction. However, these materials should not only be lightweight; they should be extremely durable and sturdy, too. Most kayakers are some of the most adventurous out there. And while we don’t expect your kid to be shooting the Class V rapids of the Grand Canyon anytime soon, it is best to choose one that is as sturdy as the Grand Canyon itself.

Physical Development

Kayaking is not only relaxing but a great way for your family to get outside and enjoy being with nature. Kayaks are a great work out for your children to enhance their muscles. Kayaking will strengthen your children's muscles. It’s also a wonderful way for your children to learn about teamwork as many of the kayaks on our top ten list can fit 1-2 children in it as well. This is also a great bonding tool for family and a way for parents to instill a positive lifestyle for children to enjoy.

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Parents, did you know?

Outdoor adventures are a great way to make lifelong memories. Most people will tell you their happiest childhood memories are days spent in the water and sun, time spent camping, moments where they stretched their imaginations and absorbed some rays of the sun. These are irreplaceable moments that not only create a happy life for your child but also provide some fundamental blocks essential to living a healthy and active lifestyle. The sunlight provides essential vitamins and fresh air can help improve circulation and healthy lung function.

Parents, did you know?

It can be hard these days to get your child out of the house and away from the technology available these days. Spending quality time is an important part of helping your child develop of sense of community. In addition, time spent socializing with family will improve social skills for all different ages. Adding water to your outdoor adventure gives your child an extra challenge in physical activity. Not only will outdoor activities create lasting memories but the physical exertion will help your child to release some pent-up energy and give them a better night's sleep.

Parents, did you know?

Engaging in a variety of water sports or water-related activities can be so much fun. However, if we are not really careful, we might expose our kids to potential hazards during water-related activities and significantly undermine the benefits of these outdoor recreation activities. As such, it is always critical to understand some of the fundamental tips to ensure safety in kayaks and canoes especially when our kids are the riders.

Parents, did you know?

Always supervise your children whenever they go out kayaking. Even the more experienced ones will still require some form of adult supervision.

Spend time teaching your kid how to swim or at least to stay afloat. You also may want to enroll your child in a kayaking course so he or she will learn not only the basics but also some of the tricks of the sport from licensed professionals.

Get your child appropriately sized safety gear such as a life jacket, helmet, rubber sandals, and others. It is important to choose gear that is of the correct size in relation to your child’s dimensions.

Parents, did you know?

Make sure to give your child adequate sunscreen or UV protection especially during the hot summer months. You may need to buy for him or her UV glasses to help protect the eyes against glare.

Encourage your child to listen to safety instructions and to follow or obey all rules about kayaking. You may want to go over each of these items individually so they become well-acquainted with these rules.

If you have to buy a kayak, make sure it is of the right size for your child and that it is stable enough to allow your kid ample freedom of movement.

Parents, did you know?

Kayaking can be so much fun. If you have a child who happens to be fascinated with the water sport, then you can nurture this fascination by getting him or her one of the 9 awesome kayaks for kids we have listed here. Once you have the best kayak for your kid, don’t forget to observe our tips on kayaking safety.

Other Factors to Consider

Physical Development

An activity like this promotes the development of muscles and motor skills. Paddling against the water will help your child build core muscles and arm strength. The movement of the wrist will strengthen forearm and wrist strength. In addition to helping your child strengthen their physical capabilities, they will improve their balance and coordination skills. Let’s be honest, nobody wants the moment in school where all eyes are on them to be the moment they slip walking down the hall. By encouraging your child to get out and and be active, you can save them the embarrassment and provide them a number of benefits. These benefits range from health, development and happiness, giving you the chance to be an inspiration to your little one.

Effectiveness

This list is compiled with a number of highly rated options designed with safety, function and durability in mind. They have enhanced features to provide your child with a comfortable ride. You love the outdoors and you want to give your little one the same fun opportunities to develop a love of the wilderness also. Kayaking is a great way to get out extra energy as mentioned above, but also to help bring you back to nature. Calmly row down the river birdwatching or paddle through the rapids.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Do they come with a paddle?

a:

Some do and others don’t. There are a few with paddles that may not be durable enough to withstand more than a few adventures.

q: Are they too heavy to paddle?

a:

ome of these are incredibly lightweight and designed for children as young as five. This means they are intended to be easily manipulated and controlled in the water.

q: Are the footrests adjustable?

a:

There are several kayaks on this list to do have an adjustable footrest. They have a few levels so they can be used year after year.

q: What is a skeg? Is a skeg useful for these products?

a:

A skeg is used to protect the propeller of the vessel. They are not necessary as these are not motor-controlled. They are also not included.

q: Do these products come with a warranty?

a:

There are some that have a manufacturer warranty, while others may be offered by the company you made the purchase from.

q: Are they durable enough to be used in the river?

a:

Yes most of these toys are designed to be used in the river and some can also be used in the pool. Possibly even the ocean if you feel really adventurous. It should be noted, care and adult supervision as well as assistance from flotation devices are recommended during use, in order to ensure the most in safety.

q: What is the weight limit?

a:

The majority of these support a maximum weight of around 130 pounds. There are a few on this list that are capable of holding up to around 200 pounds for older children. This means you can find something for everyone ages five and up. They are sure to be excited!

Sources

  1. Atlantic Kayak Tour, How does a Skeg Work?, Informative Article
  2. Perception Kayaks, Tribe , Product Information
  3. Sundolphin, BALI 6, Product Information
  4. Wikipedia, Lifetime Products, Informative
  5. Old Town Canoe and Kayaks, Old Town® Introduces New HERON JR™ Kayak, Informative Article