Kayaks aren’t generally something you want to skimp on when it comes to budget, but when you can find an inflatable kayak available for less than $80 on Amazon, with 4.5 stars and free Prime shipping, maybe it’s worth taking a look at.
The Intex Explorer K2 is a 2-person inflatable kayak, measuring 10 feet long and 3 feet across. It’s made from a thick, puncture-resistant 30-gauge vinyl, over a 1200-denier nylon shell. The floor has inflatable i-beams to give it some rigidity, while the 2 separate air chambers make it easier to evenly inflate. And if one does become punctured, it will still float as opposed to completely deflating or sinking. There’s even a removable skeg underneath that provides some direction and stability but comes off when you don’t want it.
The seats are inflatable and adjustable, have backrests, and the cockpit is designed to be spacious and comfortable. And since it fits 2 people, it can accommodate up to 400 pounds – not bad for an inflatable kayak.
Inflating and deflating the Explorer K2 is quick and easy, thanks to the Boston valves on each side and the high-output pump that comes included (nice not to have to buy your own separately). And to complete the outfit, it comes with two 86” aluminum oars.
Can the Intex compare to a multi-thousand-dollar sea kayak, or even one worth a few hundred dollars? Nope. But it’s not meant to. For well under $100, you get a fantastic inflatable kayak for navigating lakes and easy rivers (no rapids), that is easy to inflate, fits 2 people and packs into the trunk of your car – or even the passengers seat. All on a serious budget. If you go into it with that in mind, the Intex Explorer K2 will more than get the job done.
