Whether and where you are going kayaking and how you are going to canoe, the cost of the kayak is one of the main considerations that people have to make. Again, there is no straightforward answer to the question ‘How much does a kayak cost?’ Just like any other kayak-related questions, kayak cost depends on, the style of the kayak, more to it construction and features.
This article dissects the question which is fairly inventory as, ‘How much does a kayak cost?’ into several subtopics to assist you in identifying the right boat at a reasonable price range.
There are six different types of kayaks, and their prices depend on the materials used, brand, additional features, and so on.
On average, kayak prices fall within the following ranges:
- Recreational Kayaks: $300 to $1,000
- Fishing Kayaks: $500 to $2,000
- Whitewater Kayaks: $700 to $1,400
- Touring Kayaks: $1,000 to $2,000+
- Ocean Kayaks (Sea Kayaks): $1,000 to $1,800
- Inflatable Kayaks: $100 to $1,000
- Folding Kayaks: $1,800 to $2,500
- Tandem Kayaks: $500 to $2,500
- Kids Kayaks: $100 to $500
- Pedal Kayaks: $1,200 to $2,000
It may be quite easy to find kayaks that are sold for less than $100 although you should note that these are some of the lowest quality kayaks in the market and will not offer you the best performance, durability, and comfort. For you to get the best bang for your money, you need to ensure that you are dealing with a genuine manufacturer brand, one that has been reviewed positively.
In this buying guide, I will be discussing the several factors that level the kayak prices as well as the areas that you have to focus on when buying. We’ll cover:
- How the type of kayak and the planned usage affects the price
- How the materials used and the manner of the construction influence the cost of a kayak
- Brand awareness and some of the features that were incorporated in the kayak hull determine the prices.
- Guidelines for selecting the most favorable prices for the services and products.
Therefore, you are likely to be in a position to select the right kayak at the best price to answer your needs by the end of this article.
What Influences The Price Of A Kayak?
In the process of choosing a new kayak, if you had a chance to browse the market a little bit, you probably noticed something interesting about kayak prices:
They can – and, more often than not, they do; they can change significantly for the worse, too.
Why does a model that is as anorexic as a breadstick cost as much as a burger while another model that could pose a serious challenge to Rita Nakiyimbi costs next to nothing though? And what makes some cheap and others, more expensive?
Or, to sum it up in a straightforward question:
However, one would want to know what determines kayak prices.
It usually boils down to how the kayak is made, and the components of the Kayak – but that would be slightly unfair to those looking for the complete answer.
For a more detailed take on what influences the prices of kayaks, check out the factors listed below:
- Brand – The more famous brands have high price tags accompanying them; the producers or sellers of small brands make sure that the costs are within the reach of a common man.
- Construction & Material –If so, the cheapest kind of kayak one will come across is made of roto-molded polyethylene. At the other end of the spectrum, you have composite material kayaks. And right between the two extremes of cost, thermoform kayaks perfectly fit into that hole, or rather gap, that is available in the market. Oh yes, let’s not disregard inflatables; as far as portability on a boot-string budget is concerned, they take the cake.
- Where the weight is concerned, it may seem illogical as some people want a light shell kayak which means they have to dig deeper for it. Specifically, ultra-light ‘yaks made from Carbon fiber or Kevlar are those that are most costly among all the types.
- Carrying Capacity & Onboard Storage –Bigger storage space and a greater carrying capacity will set you back more cash, especially if incorporated with a lightweight construction material. Onboard storage is standard on even the most minimalistic of the ship types namely, the tank wells or the bungee rigged, but the actual hatches are only offered in the middle-tier ones and above.
- Two-person, or tandem, kayaks will be much more expensive than one-man ‘yaks. They are comparatively longer, accommodate more, and require, at the very minimum, a pair of everything – paddles, seats, cup holders; the list is endless.
- Specialized Gear & Accessories –Naturally, a ‘yak without any features added will not cost as much as a ‘yak with seats, paddles, rod holders, gear tracks and the like will cost less but in the long run, you will save more.
- Here, you include other steering systems like rudders and skegs, which little as they are may affect the cost of the kayak but could be so useful in enhancing the tracking ability of the kayak.
- Propulsion Method –The paddle kayak is cheaper to make since they do not require any other apparatus props. It is therefore possible that for the same kayak model, the price will go up exponentially as soon as you include the pedal drive system. Power ‘yaks that are motor powered are another large exponent in cost.
Something that one should also pay attention to in this sense is the fact that it is impossible that all types of kayaks – and all the performance, design characteristics, or features that they might come with – would have the same price range linked to them.
Ordinary Cost Of A Kayak: How Much does A Kayak Cost?
If you’ve read through to this point, you’re most likely aware that the range of costs – well, who are we kidding, the prices – on kayaks are somewhat variable – but where precisely does the cost per kayak sit?
Here you will find a general estimate of the cost of a kayak by type to help you – though not precisely – answer your question of how much does a kayak cost.
Recreational Kayak Prices
The recreational kayak is a lot less expensive than other kinds of kayaks specifically designed for purposes and can range between $300 to $1000.
Recreational kayaks for beginners – generic, all-round recreational vessels – are affordable, with prices starting from around $300. If looking for more space, better comfort, and something a little less … ordinary, be prepared to pay somewhat more than that.
Fishing Kayak Prices
If you are planning to buy your kayak specifically for fishing, be ready to part with between 500 up 750 dollars for a reasonable sit-on-top fishing kayak. If you start adding components that are specific to kayak fishing, like additional storage solutions, fish finder and GPS, shelves, as well as holders for rods, then the price rises suitably.
The cost of the premium fishing kayak may even go up to $2000 – if you go for a pedal drive kayak.
Whitewater Kayak Prices
The costs of whitewater kayaks differ, and you can purchase one for as low as $700 to $ 850, although this depends on the kind of whitewater kayak you want to buy. A good and quality whitewater kayak should range in the $1000s and can even go up to $1400 in some cases.
Touring Kayak Prices
The touring kayaks are in general the most costly type of kayak; their prices normally range from $1000 to $1200 and may go up as high as $2000 or even more depending on the model or the kind of accessories that are incorporated in the kayak.
You are getting a longer and new sleeker, more efficient model that is highly durable and can handle rougher water and long multi-day type trips. This cost is justified by the performance that such types of kayaks offer in the water facilities.
This report will look at how one might presume that touring and sea kayaks are the same due to the fact people refer to both as touring or sea-kayaking; therefore, this paper will analyze the differences between the two types of boats.
For example: while both can swim in mapped waters such as great lakes or sea only one is designed for riverine navigation and still the two can be priced similarly in terms of their construction with the one that is primarily designed for inland water transport also being designed to carry more loads commonly associated with camping for instance.
Inflatable Kayak Prices
Big inflatable kayaks are relatively cheap – for the most part, anyway. Most of the inflatables are cheap – in the bracket that can barely go up to $100 – while at the same time, some inflatables can go as high as $1000.
A higher price results in better puncture resistance, stronger and stiffer drop-stitch floors, more air chambers as well as whitewater rating for ducky kayaks.
Tandem Kayak Price
Because the tandem kayaks are manufactured in both the hard shell and the inflatable type, the average price range may also show some variability. The cheaper ones range from $500 to $800, although, they can easily jump past the $2500 bracket depending on the variety.
Specifically, tandem touring kayaks for example would usually be on the higher end of the scale.
Folding Kayak Prices
To summarize, folding kayaks are great, but if you plan to purchase one, you should know they are not cheap. It is preferable for travelers, those who like to travel long distances deep into the wilderness and engage in camping and hiking activities because they are portable, they can be carried anywhere since they have small sizes. When it is time to row the boat, just open it, and when done using it, just close it and store it as you wish till the next occasion.
But this flexible has its price, with models starting at $1800 up to $2500
Kids Kayak Prices
Sit-on-top kayaks for children or kids can be found at around $100 for the entry-level models. That is good news for parents with kids interested in paddling, as it is very rare to find kids’ kayaks or even kids ‘tough’ kayaks that cost more than $500.
Used Kayak Prices: How Much Should I Pay For A Utilized Kayak?
Generally, to determine the specific mean price of a used kayak, one has to find different factors such as the condition of the kayak and the original price for the kayak at the initial stage. Thus, I can’t give a particular price range for used ones.
But here is a guideline to determine how much people should pay for a used kayak these costs range from $50 -$75 % of the new kayak’s price.
Well, when it comes to the issue of used kayak prices one needs to establish what the model in question costs when it is new in the market.
Here is our easy guide, and below you will find several tips on buying used kayaks.
3 Tips for Buying a Kayak
Especially when you are in the world of kayaking the perfect information is the source of success. In this way, you would be in a position to arrive at a decision that takes into account issues to do with price as well as value. Consider the points when planning to buy a kayak.
1. Do Your Research
We are now in a stage where information is easily accessible with the help of technology. Today, you do not have to go from store to store comparing the price and the face value. In the Store, at Outdoorplay, consumers can examine over three hundred models of kayaks and appropriate accessories with reviews on proper utilization, materials or construction and even the method of production.
2. Factor in All Costs
While comparing, check on extra costs including the cost of shipping if the transaction was done on the Internet or the cost of conveyance if you were to acquire the product personally. We ship free of charge to the contiguous United States for all orders that exceed $40 in value. However, the fashion accessories and other equipment that will accompany you are also not absent: a life jacket, safety equipment, and a paddle.
To bring out the total cost of your purchase, ensure that you incorporate as many of the points as is feasible.
3. Value vs. Price
Always be careful not to settle for a product just because of the price. In deciding on the type of kayak best suited for use, one should consider the characteristics of the composite blend of attributes of the kayak, estimated longevity, reputation of the manufacturer, and need. For the buyer, taking time and effort in analysis prevents you from losing money by overpaying and guarantees that you received a good deal of the kayak.
All in all, it would depend on what you as a consumer desire in a kayak, what is important to you, and how much you’re willing to spend.
Why Are Some Kayaks So Expensive?
Hold on, a boat no bigger than a shoe and it costs two thousand dollars? These kayak Producers must be out of their minds!
But that’s the thing with expensive kayaks:
You are not paying for a tiny plastic boat – quite the faux pas.
So, if you can’t help but wonder why some kayaks are so costly, here’s a quick survey of what you’re getting when you decide to spend a few extra bucks:
- Higher level of accuracy construction-wise and performance-oriented design
- Higher-quality materials, including more durable blends of plastic or composite materials, such as fiberglass and Kevlar, that improve the kayak’s UV- and impact-resistance
- Increase comfort and convenience, provided by the adjustable cockpit outfitting, a better seating system, and more attention to details
- Better range of accessories – both included and optional – and extra features, such as gear tracks, rod holders, skid plates, cup holders
- Improved weight storage and more onboard storage options, paired with a lighter hull
- Extra steering systems, like skegs and rudders, and alternative propulsion procedures, such as pedal drive systems
“You get what you pay for,” goes the saying – but, with high-end kayaks, you also pay for what you get.
Could you go without some of these attributes and save a few bucks?
Yes, you could – which brings me to my next point.
Are Cheap Kayaks Worth It?
Sure, you get what you pay for and vice versa – but is this statement true here?
As much as possible, I don’t have anything against budget kayaks. I guess that if you know where to look, it is quite possible to come across some truly outstanding kayaks for not a whole lot of money. This round-up of best budget kayaks proves my point:
You do not have to break your back or empty your pocket, so to speak if you intend to get into kayaking.
However, there is a fine – but very crucial – line that is painted between the two, and this is a fact that you will realize as soon as you step on the kayak.
When I say cheap those are the, cheaply made kayaks that used to be sold in local discount wholesale department stores for less than one hundred dollars. What you’re getting for next to zero dollars is not going to be very good when it comes to performance, or holding up well and being comfortable.
It probably won’t help your burgeoning affection for kayaking – and that truly is a pity.
That however does not mean that all cheap kayaks are a waste of money. Those who are willing to lower their expectations and make some necessary sacrifices are sure to be surprised by what modern mobile devices, within the lower price range offer.
What Is The Best Time To Buy A Kayak?
Realizing when to buy it and synchronizing it with the appropriate periods of the year when such items go on sale will help one get the most out of their money.
What of the specific time of the year that kayaks go on sale? Well, there is no worst time to buy a kayak, but there is a best time to buy a kayak.
You should monitor the current promotions throughout the year since many of the large kayak stores and online stores have constrained promotions – the range of offers can constantly change.
But here are examples of the best times to find great deals and buy a kayak:
- Off-Season –Prime kayaking season typically ends in late August or early September. Retailers are hoping to remove their last season’s stock during the off-season, and many kayaks will be on sale.
- Holiday Deals –Vendors, big-box retailers, and dealers might offer deals on Memorial Day and during the Christmas holidays in December. Also, don’t forget about Black Friday; it can be a great opportunity to get a kayak at a deduct
- Buying Last Year’s Models – Whenever new kayak models get released, there’s a pretty sure chance that retailers will put the last year’s stock on sale, offering the earlier model at a deduct
- “Demo Sales” – Some stores will sell new models used as showroom display kayaks or demo kayaks at a slightly cheap
How Much Does A Kayak Cost: Quick Summary
To those who ask, “How much should I spend on a kayak,” the basic answer is complex as not everyone can afford an expensive kayak. However, it is still debatable and depends on so many factors – and this is something that every man shall decide.
As for how much do kayaks cost, here are some general price instructions for each of the similar types of kayaks:
- Recreational Kayaks: $300 to $1,000
- Fishing Kayaks: $500 to $2,000
- Whitewater Kayaks: $700 to $1,400
- Touring Kayaks: $1,000 to $2,000+
- Ocean Kayaks (Sea Kayaks): $1,000 to $1,800
- Inflatable Kayaks: $100 to $1,000
- Folding Kayaks: $1,800 to $2,500
- Tandem Kayaks: $500 to $2,500
- Kids Kayaks: $100 to $500
- Pedal Kayaks: $1,200 to $2,000
