It’s no secret that kayaking is one of the best and most thrilling ways to get out and explore the waters. Usually, kayaks are made keeping a slightly male-skewed or at best a slightly unisex design. However, the popularity of kayaking amongst women has necessitated brands and manufacturers to come up with specially-designed boats for them too. The best kayaks for women today have more customized and specialized features, including special considerations such as making them easier for solo women kayakers to transport them. Or, they even come with features particularly important for women such as wider cockpits or shorter lengths. After all, women with their lower centers of gravity, wider hips, and smaller builds need kayaks that suit their comfort too, right.
So, whether you’re exploring remote sounds or quiet scenic lakes, you deserve a kayak that you can not only maneuver yourself but also handle and carry. In the end, there are many great options for such kayaks in the market that have especially been made for women. Add to that the fact that kayak makers have even thrown in the fashion factor, with these boats coming in a gamut of styles and colors too. To that, end here are the 13 best kayaks for women.
How To Choose The Best Kayaks for Women?
There are different considerations when it comes to choosing different kinds of kayaks for differently-sized people. For instance, there are different and specific considerations when it comes to choosing the Best Kayaks For Larger People. In the same way, there are different considerations when it comes to women’s kayaks too. So, what are they? Read on.
Size and weight
One of the most important considerations you need to take into account is your weight and height, both of which affect how your kayak handles. Many women are used to lifting toddlers at home as well as lifting heavyweights in the gym. So, consider how much weight you can comfortably carry and consider that as the weight of the kayak you’re looking for. If you’re kayaking tandem, then maybe your kayak’s weight can be slightly higher too. In that case, looking for those that come with carrying handles at both ends. Additionally, you need to check the weight capacity on your boat to make sure that you’re well within the range, or your kayak could sit too low on the water or not track well.
Types
There are several different categories and types of kayaks. You have sit-on and sit-inside kayaks, and you have solid or inflatable kayaks, and you even have recreational and touring kayaks. Sit-on-top kayaks are great for calm lake waters, while shorter sit-inside ones do great on whitewater. Sit-on kayaks don’t fill with water and feel less claustrophobic if that’s important to you. however, if you need stability, then go for sit-inside kayaks.
Solid kayaks, while requiring no setup, could be heavy to transport and a pain to store. Modern inflatable kayaks, on the other hand, aren’t blow-up toys but rather made from robust and puncture-resistant materials. Plus, they take up very little storage space.
Comfort
Finally, you need to look for the comfort factor in your kayak, the first of which comes with the seat. The Best Kayaking Seats feature comfortable back and butt support, wick moisture especially when it’s too hot, and even come with padded cushions sometimes. Another comfort factor to look for is adjustable footrests, which are great for accounting for height. Finally, make sure that if you choose a high-back seat, then pair it with one of the Best Kayaking Life Vests.
Which is the best kayak for women?
While all kayaks on this list are great, the Star Raven II Tandem Inflatable Kayak is a slight notch above the rest. The durable and rugged craft is extremely stable thanks to the self-bailing drop-stitch floor and comfortable due to the well-designed folding seats. Made from robust PVC with top-notch valves, the easily maneuverable kayak is also resistant to scratches, abrasions, and even punctures, making it a long-lasting kayak.
Sun Dolphin Aruba Sit-in Kayak (CU)
13
There are few best kayaks for women as good as the Sun Dolphin Aruba Sit-in Kayak, which also happens to be featured amongst the Best Beginners’ Kayaks. To begin with, it comes in not one or two but a whole lot of colors such as red, pink, green, blue, purple, and even tangerine! The well-designed, simple and elegant kayak boasts a roomy cockpit space with an adjustable, padded, and well-cushioned seat along with adjustable foot braces and a high backrest. So, you can be kayaking all-day-long or even be out for multiple days on the water, and you won’t get a back or leg ache. Secondly, it’s resistant to tears, rips, and punctures since it’s made from robust, UV-resistant, and high-density polyethylene Fortiflex.
The kayak might appear compact, but it has a lot of storage space at both the front and the back. You’ll even find bungee shock cord rigging for attaching additional gear. Rounding up the features are the water bottle holder and the well-molded carrying handles to carry the boat to the water.
Specifications
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Pros
- Stable.
- Durable.
- Spacious cockpit.
- High-back seat and adjustable foot braces.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
Cons
- The kayak’s plastic edges are rather sharp.
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Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit-on-Top Kayak (CU)
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Available in two pleasing colors of orange and blue-green, the Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit-on-Top Kayak is the perfect kayak for women to better their skills on flat water. Coming in two lengths, the shorter, 9.5 feet version is not only lighter in weight but also the length makes it more maneuverable and manageable. The comfy seat is generously padded and adjustable too, going all the way back for your comfort. There is a lot of storage onboard the craft as well, despite it being shorter and more compact. So, you’ll find both front and rear storage compartments as well as bungee deck lacing for tying extra gear.
Going further, the kayak is extremely stable, allowing amateurs to advance to intermediate paddlers with growing confidence. It’s that same stability as well as the rigid and robust floor that allows you to stand up and fish or even jump off and re-enter the craft easily. Rounding up the features are the many footrest positions and allow for paddling the kayak stably.
Specifications
- Weight: 46 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
Pros:
- Lots of comfort factors.
- Tons of storage.
- Maneuverable and stable.
Cons:
- None, really.
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Perception Sound 9.5 Sit-Inside Kayak (CU)
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Yet another Perception kayak makes an entry into this list of best kayaks for women, and it’s the Perception Sound 9.5 Sit-Inside Kayak. This one is best for recreational kayaks for paddling on slow-moving waters. This kayak has all the making of an excellent boat for females, starting with the comfortable leg rests and padded seat that allows you to stay out for long on the water. If you’re a budding angler, then the in-built rod and gear holders help you fish hands-free and even rest your tired arms every once in a while.
What’s more, the kayak does well on storage too, with front and rear space as well as bungee cord lacing for tying extra gear. Plus, you’ll find molded dashboard storage for stashing smaller and quick-access items such as keys, phones, etc. Rounding up the features is the drain plug that quickly lets out any water that collects in the kayak.
Specifications
- Weight: 38 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
Pros:
- Lots of storage.
- A ton of fishing extras.
- Stable.
Cons:
- Virtually none.
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Star Raven II Tandem Inflatable Kayak (CU)
10
If you’re looking for a female-friendly inflatable tandem craft, then look no further than the Star Raven II Tandem Inflatable Kayak. Also considered as one of the Best Inflatable Whitewater Kayaks, this rugged kayak is perfect for intrepid women who’re not afraid to ride the rapids. To begin with, the craft boasts a self-bailing drop-stitch floor that not only drains water out of the boat but also lends it immense stability. Secondly, the craft features two extremely comfortable folding seats that allow two adult paddlers to ride out for long hours without getting tired. Meanwhile, the well-designed curve tubes keep the kayak easily maneuverable in whitewater, allowing you to have fun while keeping you in control.
The robust PVC build of the kayak is what makes it resistant to abrasions, scratches, and even punctures, lasting it a long, long time for you. The top-quality Leafield C7 valves add to the durability and also ensure hassle-free and quick inflation and deflation for you to push off into the water quickly. Rounding up the features are the extra hook and loop fasteners and the adjustable seats, which attach quickly to the D-rings to be setup.
Specifications
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
Pros:
- Bow and stern carrying handles.
- High-pressure drop-stitch floor.
- Comes with a carry bag, pump, and repair kit.
- Three-year retail limited warranty.
Cons:
- None!
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Ocean Kayak Venus 11 Sit-On-Top Kayak (CU)
9
Venus is a fitting name to give to a craft that sits on most lists of best kayaks for women. Introducing the Ocean Kayak Venus 11 Sit-On-Top Kayak, which is perfect for kayaking in slight swells and slow-moving waters. Designed by women for women, the Venus 11 is the single most perfect craft that you can possibly foray into the world of kayaking with. so For one, it’s one hell of a comfortable ride, thanks to the rounded V-shaped hull, the multiple footrest positions, and the wide seat well. That, combined with the Comfort Hybrid Seat goes a long way in ensuring all-day comfort and even for longer, multi-day kayaking expeditions.
Going further, the kayak which weighs just 44 lbs boasts a whopping weight capacity of 225 lbs. You’ll even find a deck area to mount an MP3 player to listen to your favorite songs while angling and even an in-molded cup holder to sip on your favorite beverage while doing so. Finally, the right-side paddle holder keeps the paddle close while the hatch on the storage bucket keeps your things safe and secure too.
Specifications
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Weight capacity: 225 lbs
Pros:
- Side, front, and back carrying handles.
- Padded seat with lumbar support.
- Lightweight and stable.
Cons:
- Only bungee storage.
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Emotion Kayaks Spitfire 9 Sit-On-Top Kayak (CU)
8
One of the best kayaks for women is also one of the Best Kayaks for Lakes, the Emotion Kayaks Spitfire 9 Sit-On-Top Kayak. There’s a lot to like about this kayak, starting with the fact that it weighs all of 45 lbs, making it very easy for any woman to carry it between the home, the car, and the water. If you need some help, try out the Best Kayak Carts, Wheels, and Trolleys – they make your life loads better. That said, it measures just nine feet in length, allowing it to be easily maneuvered by women.
Furthermore, what paddlers will really love about the kayak is the central storage hatch, which makes for a secure and dry place for storing fishing and kayaking gear. What’s even better is that it’s right next to the seat, so it’s within easy reach for taking stuff out even as you’re paddling. Finally, the craft boasts a wonderful fold-down seat that can not only be installed and set up quickly but is very comfortable too.
Specifications
- Weight: 45 lbs
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
Pros:
- Fold-down seatback.
- Lots of storage space.
- Stern and bow webbing.
- Comes in two colors.
Cons:
- Expensive.
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Old Town Vapor 10 Recreational Kayak (CU)
7
One of the best, most versatile kayaks for women is the brilliantly-designed Old Town Canoes & Kayaks Vapor 10 Kayak. Not only is this recreational kayak fun to use, but it’s extremely robust and sturdy too, thanks to the single-layer polyethylene build. You’ll really like the adjustable seat, which is very comfortable for kayaking for a long while. Plus, the paddle rest on the rim of the cockpit is perfect for resting your paddles when you want to give your tired arms a good break.
Comfort is one of the high points of this kayak, which also comes with knee and thigh pads for additional comfort. Plus, it even comes with the Glide Track Foot Brace system for additional comfort and customization of fit. What’s even better is that you’ll also find tons of stern and bow storage, complete with bungee deck lacing for tying extra gear.
Specifications
- Weight: 47 lbs
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs
Pros:
- Easy to transport.
- Affordable.
- In-built carry handles.
- Comfortable.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Practically none.
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Perception Tribute 10.0 Kayak (CU)
6
One of the lightest kayaks on this list is the Perception Tribute 10.0 Kayak, which weighs just 36 lbs! So, it’s very easy for women to lift it and carry it off on their own too. The 10-feet long sit-inside kayak was designed by keeping women and small-framed paddlers in mind. For starters, the spacious cockpit boasts a width of 26 inches, making it easy for women to get in and get out. Additionally, there’s a ton of storage whether you’re heading out on a day trip or going on a multi-day kayaking expedition. This is thanks to the stern dry storage hatch as well as the bow bungee rigging on the deck.
What makes sitting in this kayak for long a breeze is the comfortable padded seat, which comes complete with an extremely adjustable ergonomic seat back too. Moreover, the bottom of the seat can be raised and tilted for lending extra support to the thighs, making it great for longer paddling trips.
Specifications
- Weight: 36 lbs
- Weight capacity: 225 lbs
Pros:
- Speedy.
- Lightweight.
Cons:
- Some users said that they found it hard for the kayak to track straight.
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Wilderness Systems Tarpon 100 (CU)
5
Are you an angler looking for the Best Fly Fishing Kayaks for women? Behold the reliable and utterly dependable Wilderness System Tarpon 100, which is the perfect craft for a successful fly fishing expedition in summer. Measuring 10 feet in length, the kayak is extremely steady and stable and even allows you to stand up for casting your rod and bait. What’s more, you have a lot of space to stand up too, especially since there’s no pedal system around. Going further, the kayak has not one but two watertight compartments, thus providing a ton of storage.
Furthermore, you’ll also find a whole host of comfort features onboard this craft. The best of them all is the Phase 3 AirPro seat that comes with a mesh cover for preventing discomfort and allowing your skin to breathe during sticky and hot weather. Finally, the SlideTrax system allows you to mount a ton of accessories on the craft, including extra rod holders.
Specifications
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Weight capacity: 325 lbs
Pros:
- Steady and stable.
- Comfortable seat.
- Two watertight compartments.
- Lots of storage.
Cons:
- Virtually none.
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Pelican Sport Sentinel 100X Kayak
4
It’s only fitting for the highly robust and dependable Pelican Sport Athena 100XP Kayak to be named after what means the “guardian.” Just like its name, this is an absolutely solid and reliable craft that’ll sort of protect and guard you on the water and last you years. Weighing just 42 lbs with a weight capacity of 275 lbs, the lightweight Sentinel is designed specifically for women and features ergonomic carry handles at the rear and front for easier carrying. Besides a spacious cockpit, you’ll also find an ergonomic and adjustable seat with adjustable foot braces and comfortable padding for long hours out on the water.
Aside from the above, the Sentinel has stability, maneuverability, and speed all combined together. Rounding up its features is the bottle holder, the bungee cords on the deck, and the conveniently located cockpit table.
Specifications
- Weight: 42 lbs
- Weight capacity: 275 lbs
Pros:
- Comfortable.
- Lightweight.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Text
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Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak
3
When it comes to the best kayaks for women, what can be better than one of the Best Folding Kayaks – the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak. Serious female kayakers will absolutely love this nifty and versatile kayak that is small in size and lightweight, making it extremely maneuverable with excellent tracking and turning performance. Thanks to its four inflation chamber build, this kayak is extremely easy to inflate and deflate, and then fold and pack subsequently. Add to that a weight of just 27 lbs and a length of 10.5 feet, you have what is the lightest kayak on this list!
Despite its compact size, the kayak boasts a good amount of gear storage space for storing your kayaking gear and accessories. Since it’s short, shorter women paddlers will really appreciate how easy it is to paddle and maneuver this kayak. Moreover, it even has a supportive and elevated seat that keeps you comfortable for longer kayaking expeditions.
Specifications
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
Pros:
- Small-sized and lightweight.
- Lightweight, portable, maneuverable.
- Comfortable seat.
Cons:
- No option for a spray skirt.
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Sea Eagle 330 Deluxe Inflatable Kayak
2
Do you want a lightweight kayak to go paddling with your doggie? Then look no further than the Sea Eagle 330 Deluxe Inflatable Kayak, which is extremely durable thanks to its K-80 polykrylar build that’s resistant to punctures. Despite this robustness, the kayak is springy and is very easy to inflate and deflate. Even though it weighs just 26 lbs, the second most lightweight kayak on this list, it has a whopping weight capacity of 500 lbs! So, even if your kayaking companion is your human pal or partner, it’s perfect.
Besides a wide width for easy getting in and out, the kayak also comes with two bottom skegs for better speed and tracking. An open and close drain valve makes inflation and deflation a breeze, while the lashed down inflatable spray skirts with storage underneath keep you dry from the water, shedding it right off.
Specifications
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
Pros:
- Adjustable and comfortable seats.
- Comes with an entire kit.
- Super-durable.
Cons:
- None, really.
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Oru Kayak Beach LT (CU)
1
It’s only fitting that we end our list of best kayaks for women with the inimitably matchless Oru Kayak Beach LT, which is an excellent foldable recreation kayak for the intrepid female adventurer. The craft is as durable as it’s compact and boasts high-quality construction. For starters, the width and wide cockpit of the kayak make it an extremely stable craft for kayaking even on slightly rough waters. However, what makes it singularly amazing is that this kayak goes from box to boat in less than five minutes! After that, all you need to do is push off into the water.
Aside from a 12-month guarantee, what you’ll like about this kayak is the storage space, allowing you to carry all your gear with you and leave nothing behind. All-in-all, this Beach LT kayak makes for one of the most packable and portable kayaks on this list.
Specifications
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
Pros:
- Stable.
- Easy to paddle.
- Wide cockpit for easy access.
Cons:
- Paddles aren’t included.
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