Best Kayaks Under $500 of 2022

BEST FOR: FLATWATER PADDLING AND SANDBAR DIVING

The Lotus is the perfect diving board if you like to get into the water and swim near shore or sandbars. The ‘yak provides a nice, stable platform to return to when you want a break or to explore some more. The sit-on-top style is easier to re-enter after you jump in than a sit-inside model because the inside doesn’t fill with water.

This design also provides a means to get closer to nature. You can dip your feet in the water off the sides or contemplate your life’s purpose while you lie back and float. This simple boat is a straightforward way for beginners, teenagers, and campers to learn how to kayak or simply enjoy their time outdoors.

BEST INFLATABLE-STYLE KAYAK

If you are looking for a lightweight and compact kayak that still maneuvers well, the Chinook 90 is worth considering — its performance capabilities might surprise you. The Chinook features a 9 foot open cockpit design that weighs in at only 19 pounds and still fits in the trunk. Made of durable ripstop polyester, this kayak offers excellent puncture and abrasion resistance. The Chinook 90’s compact design allows it to excel at reaching hard-to-reach places, such as those intended for bird watching or lake shore exploration.

What I like most about this kayak is that although its compact, it is surprisingly stable, as well, making it comfortable to paddle all day long.

BEST SIT-INSIDE KAYAK YOU CAN BUY FOR LESS THAN $500

If you need a compact kayak that still performs well, look no further than the Advanced Frame Sport from Advanced Elements. This kayak features an aluminum-reinforced frame in the stern and bow, which helps to bolster rigidity and performance in the water. Multiple air chambers supply excellent buoyancy and add stability to this kayak’s unique shape. A triple layer PVC coated polyester construction offers great puncture resistant without weighing you down. 

What I like most about this kayak is how it looks and feels like a rigid kayak but still packs down to fit in the trunk of a car.

BEST FISHING KAYAK FOR UNDER $500

If you are looking for a balanced blend of versatility and comfort on your next all-day adventure out on the water, the Intex Excursion Pro is sure to get the job done. This two person kayak is designed to meet all the fishing needs of you and a partner. With adjustable seats, floor mounted footrests, integrated fishing rod holders, removable skegs, and mounting brackets for accessories, the Excursion Pro can handle any fishing trip you can dream up. The kayak’s 3-ply PVC construction ensures protection against corrosive elements, like salt and gasoline, while providing for adequate abrasion resistance.

What I like most about the Intex Excursion is that a high output pump and paddles are included in the purchase package.

BEST FOR: KIDS

If you are looking for a simple and safe kayak for kids above the age of five, the Youth Wave has got you covered.

The Wave features enhanced stability and a durable hull construction, so you won’t have to worry about the boat impacting a rock or scraping the bottom. A unique sloped design and swim-up step allows for easy re-entry from the water. The thoughtful addition of multiple foot rests makes this kayak comfortable enough for the whole family to enjoy.

What I like most about the Lifetime Youth Wave is that it weighs in at only 19 pounds, making for a boat even your kid can help carry to the water.

BEST FOR: WHITEWATER KAYAKING

If your sense of adventure calls you to try whitewater kayaking, then this kayak offers a budget-friendly way to learn the skill. The Rover takes little effort to set up and handles Class III to Class IV rapids with responsive handling.

You might think inflatable kayaks are a questionable choice for whitewater kayaking, but the Rover is reinforced and layered to resist puncturing and contains three separate chambers, all the protection possible against logs, rocks, and other snags. If one chamber gets punctured (which would take quite a lot), the other two will still keep you afloat.

BEST FOR: FREEWHEELING ANYTIME, ANYWHERE

At under $100, The K1 makes kayaking accessible to everyone who wants to make it happen. And the reliable construction belies the price. Although you wouldn’t want to take this inflatable into choppier waters or expect it to travel at full speed, it offers you a solitary day on the water any time without any reservations. 

You should be able to carry the kayak by yourself as well, since it only weighs as much as a small child. Just pump it up with air with the hand pump and you’re ready to push off into your next adventure.

BEST FOR: LEISURELY PADDLING IN CALM WATERS

Summers are rife with waterplay, and the Sentinel gives you another way to splash around for an affordable price. With the 275 lb capacity, you can even set Fido between your feet to ride like a new-world explorer. You can drop the ‘yak in slow-moving lakes and rivers and check out new territory every time you ride.

The multi-chine hull design (see Features Explained) makes you feel steady and secure as you glide across the sun-glinted water. As soon as you land on shore, you’ll wish you were in the water again. So, ditch your schedule and climb aboard.

BEST FOR: IMPROMPTU WEEKEND ADVENTURES

Look at any one of our “Best Kayak” lists, and you’ll likely find the AdvancedElements on most of them. There’s a reason for that. This staple kayak is well-received for both its engineering and its portability. The kayak stores well in small-space environments but has a built-in aluminum frame system that gives it the durability of a solid kayak.

When you get the urge to be in the water, the AdvancedFrame Kayak is ready when you are. Simply fill with air and push it off the shoreline and you can get moving. If you want to be able to kayak in a reliable vessel whenever the desire strikes, this ‘yak is your go-to.