13 Lightweight Kayaks for Seniors (Ultralite 2024)

Chances are that if you’ve reached a certain age and love kayaking, you’re looking for the best lightweight kayaks for seniors in the market.

Ideally, you are in search of a kayak that you can easily maneuver and carry. It should be comfortable enough for you to kayak for long periods of time. 

Did you know that kayaking has some amazing benefits for older people? Now you do!

Although the options seem broad, the truth is that finding the best kayaks for senior citizens is not always easy-peasy!

There’s too much information that can confuse you or worse, lead you to buy a kayak that is not suitable for you, even if it’s lightweight kayaks for seniors. 

So in this post, I’ll walk you through the best lightweight kayaks for seniors out there, to help you make the right purchase.

Buckle up, and let’s begin.  

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Our Pick

Before we get into details, here are our top options when it comes to lightweight kayaks for seniors:

Our Pick	Sea Eagle Fast Track 385	Awesome tracking. Fast and suitable in calm and choppy waters. High-quality construction materials. High weight capacity.
Best For The Budget	AdvancedFrame Ultralite Kayak	Super lightweight and easy to carry.Minimum swinging from left to right.Excellent construction materials. Rigid and amazing tracking.
Best Inflatable Kayak For Seniors	Oru Foldable Kayak Beach Lt.	Easy to carry and store. Performs awesome in calm waters. Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.High-quality and rust-resistant construction material.

13 Best Lightweight Kayaks for Seniors

1. AdvancedFrame Ultralite Kayak 

Measures: 10’ 5″ x 32″

Weight: 17.5 pounds (perfect for easily carrying it around!)

Weight Capacity: 225 pounds

Pros:

• Super lightweight and easy to carry.
• Minimum swinging from left to right.
• Excellent construction materials.
• Rigid and amazing tracking.
• Affordable.
• Offers protection against the elements.

Cons:

• Performs better on rivers and lakes.
• Not too much legroom.

This Advanced Elements inflatable kayak is super light, with only 17.5 pounds, making it one of the best light weight kayak!

This means no issues when carrying on land. Additionally, its performance is top-notch, it has amazing tracking, which is great for kayaking for seniors as it’s easier to maneuver.

It comes pre assembled, so you just have to inflate it and attach the seat. You will be pleased to know that the seat is adjustable and very comfortable.

It has aluminum ribs, which makes it rigid and adds to the lightweight features. 

This is helpful because it prevents the side-to-side swinging effect that many of the inflatable kayaks have, which is great for senior paddlers´ balance.

This kayak is quite affordable, and it is built with several layers of vinyl and PVC. As such, it is strong and resistant to sharp objects.

The sealed cockpit will protect you from the water, so you have lower chance of ending up soaked. It is definitely one of the best lightweight kayak for seniors, for sure.

On the downside, it doesn’t have too much legroom. Also, it performs better in lakes and slow-moving rivers, and not as well on the ocean.

2. Intex Explorer K2

Measures: ‎13.5” x 23.13´ x 16.25”

Weight: 26 pounds

Weight Capacity: 400 pounds

Pros:

• Easy to carry,
• Lightweight.
• Removable seats.
• Great tracking.

Cons:

• Some users have received faulty products.
• Not so great customer service.

This inflatable kayak is easy to carry, it’s lightweight, and it was built to be handled by two paddlers. 

However, it is also good to know that the seats are removable. As such, it can accommodate only one paddler if you are planning to go kayaking solo.

The hull has a removable skeg that enhances the kayak’s capacity to go straight. This is most certainly to come in handy if you’re paddling on a windy day, or against the currents.

Do keep in mind though that a couple of users have complained about receiving faulty kayaks (with air leaks) and that the customer service could have been better. However, overall, the product in itself is a worthy buy. 

3. Sea Eagle Fast Track 385

Measures: 12’6″ x 36″

Weight: 32 pounds

Weight Capacity: 635 pounds

Pros:

• Awesome tracking.
• Fast and suitable in calm and choppy waters.
• Wind-resistant.
• High-quality construction materials.
• Versatile.
• High weight capacity.

Cons:

• None we could find.

This kayak tracks amazingly (even if it’s windy or the water is choppy) thanks in part to its asymmetric construction, which makes it one of the best kayak for older beginner friendly. 

It has a rigid inflatable keel with drop stitch technology, that allows this kayak to paddle faster and keep the direction better.

Its streamlined design cuts through the water in a clean and easy way. 

The major advantage of this kayak is its versatility. It can be used for fishing or as a paddleboard, thanks to a removable skeg, that also plays a role in the swinging reduction. 

The drop stitch floor and a double layer of fabric are key for this kayak’s rigidity and high quality. 

This inflatable fishing kayak is a great sit on top kayaks for seniors as it is lightweight, rigid and easy to get in and out off.

4. Perception Rambler 13.5

Measures: 13.6”

Weight: 78 pounds

Weight Capacity: 550 pounds

Pros:

• Large and spacious.
• Perfect for couples.
• Awesome weight capacity.
• Several footrest places.
• Adjustable and comfortable seats.
• Great tracking.
• Large storage area.

Cons:

• Heavier than others on this list.
• Difficult to use as a K1.

This is a superb kayak for couples. It comes with two seats and has the option of adding a third in the middle!

This means you can take your grandkid or your pet along with you for some kayaking fun.

This 2 person fishing kayak is design with open sit on top design for fishing convenient, which makes it easy to get in and out.

The seats are comfortable and adjustable, providing great back support – perfect for those with back issues but still want to maintain their activity levels!

Additionally, it has many footrest spots to accommodate paddlers of different heights, and it has a mind-blowing weight capacity.

This makes it perfect for senior paddlers who may be slightly heavier.

That being said, it’s heavier than many of the kayaks on this list, and you might need a universal kayak carrier to move it around once you finish your adventure for the day.

It’s a perfect kayak for calm waters, such as lakes and slow-moving rivers, and the tracking is very good.

In the stern, it has a quite large storage area, big enough for bringing along a cooler full of cold soft drinks.

Although it can be used by only one paddler, this task has been difficult for several users, so I’d say is more suitable for couples.

5. Oru Foldable Kayak Beach Lt.

Measures: 12´ x 28” 

Weight: 26 pounds

Weight Capacity: 200 pounds

Pros:

• Easy to carry and store.
• Performs awesome in calm waters.
• Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
• High-quality and rust-resistant construction material.
• One-year warranty.

Cons:

• Not suitable for the ocean.
• Some users have complained of leaks.
• Wind-sensitive.

This Oru kayak has the major advantage of being foldable, which makes storing it an easy task. More importantly, it is a super lightweight kayak for seniors and considered as one of the best kayak for women.

In addition to that, it comes with a carry bag to store it in, and you won’t even need to inflate or deflate to put it in there! If you’re a senior, then you’re going to love this feature!

This kayak is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers, and due to its foldable nature, you won’t need a car roof rack for transportation.

It is an awesome kayak for calm waters, and the construction material is top-notch: high-quality polypropylene and rust-resistant hardware. 

However, do take note that this lightweight kayak for seniors is not entirely suitable for the ocean. Some users have complained of leaks, and the possibility of it being overly to wind changes.

As a plus point, the company offers a one-year warranty on any material or manufacturing defects.

6. Brooklyn Kayak Company FK285

Measures: 9´x 5´ x 33” 

Weight: 44 pounds

Weight Capacity: 350 pounds

Pros:

• Very durable and stable.
• Perfect for fishing.
• Great construction material.
• Resistant to abrasion, UV rays, and impact.
• Adjustable seat that prevents hip tightness.
• Wide and spacious.

Cons:

• Heavier than others on this list.

This is a sit-on-top rigid kayak, which, alongside a number of features for kayak fishing, makes it one of the heavier ones on this list.

This BKC kayak, however, being hefty, it is very stable and suitable only for one paddler. It is also perfect for fishing!

The construction material (high-density HDPE) is excellent and provides protection against abrasion, UV rays, and impact.  

It has an adjustable seat, which is also a bit elevated. This makes the hips sit higher than the legs. This is very useful to prevent hip tightness and to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

There are two waterproof hatches for keeping your belongings dry, and it has a lot of storage space for your fishing gear.

7. Pakayak Bluefin 14

Measures: 14´ x 24” x 16”

Weight: 60 pounds

Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

Pros:

• Very fast and sturdy.
• High-quality materials.
• Easy to assemble and disassemble.
• Comfortable seat.
• Enough space for storing.
• Company’s proactive towards wildlife conservation.

Cons:

• Less legroom.
• Heavier than others on this list.

This K1 kayak is well-suited for the ocean, and it is one of the fastest kayaks out there.

This is possible thanks to its design (inspired by the bluefin tuna, by the way), with a double-chinned hull, that improves the tracking.

The construction material is high-density polyethylene, best known for its superb quality. So this kayak is sturdy and durable, as well as leakproof and UV-resistant.

It’s easy to assemble and disassemble, and it can break down to 6 pieces that can be carried individually, although it’s on the heavier side.

Additionally, the seat is quite comfortable.

It has enough space for gear storing, with two watertight hatches that serve this purpose. 

The company offers a percentage of its profits to save endangered species! What a wonderful cause indeed!

On the downside, it has less legroom, and it is a bit heavier than others on this list.

8. Ocean Kayak Frenzy

Measures: 9´ x 3´1” X 18” 

Weight: 43 pounds

Weight Capacity: 325 pounds

Pros:

• Very stable.
• Great tracking and easy to maneuver.
• Comfortable and adjustable seat.
• Central holder for drinks placement.
• Easy to carry on land.
• Two bungee areas for storage.

Cons:

Water might leak through the bottom, according to some buyers, however this is one of the best lightweight ocean kayak as it is very rigid.

A one-person rigid kayak, the Ocean Kayak Frenzy is superb for both calm waters and light surf waters, so it’s great to use it in the ocean.

It’s easy to maneuver and keep straight, thanks in part to a long center keel.

Additionally, this Frenzy Ocean kayak has a comfortable and adjustable seat and several footrest spots, which means paddlers of different heights will have an enjoyable experience.

It also has a central holder for placing your bottle or cups, so you can have a nice drink while kayaking. This kayak is also easy to carry on land, thanks to four carry handles.

It has two bungee areas for storing your gear, but it’s advisable to get a waterproof bag, just in case, since some paddlers have experienced water leaking through the bottom.

9. Sentinel 100X Angler Fishing Kayak

Measures: 9´x 6” 

Weight: 44 pounds

Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

Pros:

• Lightweight.
• Easy to maneuver and handle.
• Easy to get into and out of it.
• Waterproof hatches for storing.
• Perfect for fishing.
• Fast (3mph)

Cons:

• No gear tracks
• Tracking can be improved 
• No horizontal rod storage (For fishing)

This is a fishing kayak, not only great for fishing but for recreational kayaking, and is perfect for calmer waters or for fishing. 

What makes this kayak as one the best kayak for elders is the great maneuverability. It’s very easy to handle, and to get into and out of it as well, thanks to an open-cockpit along with the short and narrow design. 

The paddle is also lightweight, and the seat is comfortable and low, so it’s great for preventing you from getting wet while kayaking. 

It has a bungee paddle holder on each side and two dry hatches to secure your gear- one at the front and the other at the center of the cockpit making it accessible while on water. 

It also has two rear-facing flush-mounted rod holders with a rod holder in the front, making it very convenient if you are using this kayak during a fishing trip. 

Some users have mentioned that this kayak isn’t suitable for long trips, because it doesn’t track that well.

So if you’re going on a short trip, this lightweight sit on top kayak may work out for you.

10. Outdoor Tuff Stinger

Measures: 9’1” x 30” x 13.5” 

Weight: 25 pounds

Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

Pros:

• Sturdy and resistant.
• Very lightweight
• High-quality material.
• Easy to assemble and carry.
• Rigid and protected against sharp objects.

Cons:

• Not ideal for tall people.

This inflatable kayak is made of a triple-layer PVC material, which makes it sturdy and resistant.

It is suitable for one paddler only, and is very easy to assemble and carry. It has three air chambers that give it protection against sharp objects and rigidity.

The seat is easy to inflate and attach, and it is very comfortable as well.

Being relatively lightweight, it is the perfect kayak for seniors, although it’s not ideal for tall people, because it doesn’t have too much legroom.

It is also easy to maneuver, thanks to rotatable fins and paddles. With all this in mind, it is definitely one of the best lightweight kayaks for adults.

11. Sevlyor Quikpak K1

Measures: 8’7″ x 3′

Weight: 18 pounds

Weight Capacity: 400 pounds

Pros:

• Very lightweight.
• Backrest support.
• Easy to inflate and deflate.
• Leakproof and with multiple air chambers.
• High-quality materials.
• Many footrest spots.
• Easy to store.

Cons:

• More pricey.
• The paddle is not so sturdy.

A very lightweight inflatable, one-person kayak, you’ll be able to inflate and deflate this kayak in no time!

It was built with multiple air chambers, so your kayak will hold air if one of the chambers breaks or has issues while kayaking. 

This will allow paddlers to safely get to the shore and repair it or ask for help if needed.

The PVC construction material is very high-quality and adds to the features of a lightweight kayaks for seniors Also, the bottom is made of a tarpaulin material, which protects it from sharp objects.

This kayak has several footrest spots and can be stored in a convenient backpack, which, by the way, will turn into the kayak seat when inflated. O_O Multipurpose items for the win all the way! 

The seat offers awesome back support – perfect for seniors to rest their back when they get tired of paddling.

It is also leak-proof and is extremely  spacious. This makes it perfect for older people who need to frequently stretch their legs to avoid any nasty muscle cramps! It’s among the best lightweight kayaks out there.

The Sevlyor Quikpak K1 lightweight feature and effortless way to inflate and deflate makes it one of the best kayak for senior woman and man, as you don’t have to carry around a giant kayak, it all fits in a bag!

On the downside, however, it is more expensive than others on this list. Additionally, some users have mentioned that the paddle is not very sturdy.

12. Intex Challenger

Measures: 9′ X 2’6″ X 1’1″

Weight: 25 pounds

Weight Capacity: 225 pounds

Pros:

• Easy to carry and inflate.
• Comes in several colors.
• Perfect for slow-moving rivers and lakes.
• High-quality materials.
• Resistant to sun and abrasion.
• Very stable. 

Cons:

• Difficult to clean.
• Not very fast

This inflatable kayak is awesome for paddling in lakes and slow-moving rivers, and it comes in two variants, for one and two paddlers.

It is easy to inflate and comes in a variety of colors, so you’ll be able to choose your favorite.

The rugged vinyl material ensures that it is resistant to the sun and abrasions. Movement-wise, this kayak is extremely stable, enhanced also by a removable skeg.

This kayak is not as easy to clean. Also, although it’s quite stable, it’s not very fast.

13. Pelican – Argo 100 X

Measures: 10 foot

Weight: 36 pounds

Weight Capacity: 275 pounds

Pros:

• Very lightweight.
• Easy to maneuver and handle.
• Easy to get into and out of it.
• Waterproof hatches for storing.
• Perfect beginners
• Affordable

Cons:

• Not built for speed
• Not ideal for current
• No horizontal rod storage (For fishing)

If you are looking for a lightweight recreational or hunting kayak, Pelican Argo 100 X is great for beginners!

It has a very low profile, perfect for hiding out in shallow vegetation while hunting for ducks. 

Besides being great for hunting, the Pelican 100 has excellent stability and durability. The large cockpit design makes it very easy to get in and out, and also provides extra protection from water splashes. 

With a padded seat rest and adjustable foot peg, you get to maximize your kayaking experience for hours on the water without feeling discomfort. 

Another added bonus for this kayak is the covered day hatch at the front, great to store small things you want to stay protected from the sun or water. 

The V-shaped hull at the bow and the short length  makes it easy to maneuver around. However, as this is suitable for beginners, this kayak is suitable for calm water or slow moving rivers. 

If you are just starting out in kayaking, the Pelican Argo 100 X is the best beginner friendly lightweight kayaks for women and men.

What To Look For When Buying Lightweight Kayaks For Seniors?

1. Material: Rigid vs Inflatable

Both types of kayaks are very popular, but according to your particular situation, you should go for one or the other.

Let’s check some pros and cons of rigid and lightweight kayaks.

1. Rigid Kayaks

Pros:

• Generally have better performance and are easier to maneuver.
• You can find them as sit-on-top kayaks or sit-inside kayaks.
• They have scupper holes (on sit-on-top) to drain water out of the cockpit.
• They are perfect for paddling for long hours or covering long distances.
• They are better at staying pointed to your desired direction.

Cons:

• They are heavier.
• You may find them to be harder to store both at home or in your car.

2. Inflatable Kayaks

Pros:

• They are lightweight.
• They are easy to carry and transport.
• They are easy to get it in and out of the water.
• They occupy less space, so it’s easy to store it.

Cons:

• It takes time to inflate/deflate them,
• Overall, their performance is not as good as rigid kayaks.

The lightweight kayak for seniors characteristics is undeniable defined by the construction material, as you can see, but many rigid kayaks can be carried with not too much effort.

2. Type: Sit-on-top vs Sit-inside Kayak

This truly depends on the waters you’re planning to paddle in and how much you are willing to enjoy the elements.

Sit-on-top kayaks for seniors provide less protection from the wind, sun, and water, but they are easier to get out of, to be honest.

This is a feature that the older generation might appreciate.

They’re also less prone to tipping over and are quite steady.

Sit-inside kayaks, however, will protect you better from the elements, but they’re more difficult to get in and out of.

3. Stability

Oftentimes, kayaking will be a relaxing activity for seniors. This means, softly paddling through the water and taking in the surroundings at a calm pace.

Hence, a stable kayak is crucial, so you won’t have to stress about staying upright every minute.

Look for a kayak with a wide and flat hull, since these are usually the more stable ones. Also, longer kayaks are typically more stable than shorter ones.

4. Kayak Length

Since longer kayaks provide more stability, it makes sense to go for them.

A long kayak will allow you to paddle and maneuver at your leisure, without having to worry about falls or tip-overs.

5. Comfort Level

Having a comfortable kayak is a must when looking for the right canoe or kayak for seniors, since often you could find yourself kayaking for hours.

Make sure that your kayak has a soft floor, footrests, and a cushioned seat. These seemingly little things will definitely allow you to enjoy this awesome activity for longer periods.

Also, check if the seat has a high back that’s able to support your full weight. If it has adjustable lumbar support, even better!

This will ensure you can get comfy no matter the shape of your back, and relieve your abdominal muscles from doing all the work of supporting you on the kayak.

And of course, you won’t end up with your butt or back screaming in pain!

6. Level Of Performance On The Water

Finding a kayak that’s easy to maneuver in the water is not easy-peasy a first glance!

This is where reviews come in handy.

Read what buyers have said about the performance of the kayak you fancy before deciding to purchase it.

Luckily for you, the options we provided above are completely transparent, and we took into account both good and bad reviews.

You can also check the design of the kayak to have an idea of how hard it might be to make it go wherever you want.

Overall, rounded-hull and pontoon-hull kayaks, are more stable and easy to maneuver, but they will not be as speedy as a V-shaped hull kayak.

7. Weight Of The Kayak

A lightweight kayak for seniors is crucial. You don’t want to struggle to carry your kayak around with you. 

Even if you have a stroller for moving it, you’ll still have to get it in and out of your car, and the water.

There are many great options in the list above regarding lightweight kayaks for seniors that will make your life easier.

Make sure you pick one that’s easy to handle on land and in the water when checking lightweight kayaks for sale.

8. Easy Storage

Storing your kayak is very important for keeping it safe and functioning for the years of adventure to come.

As mentioned before, rigid kayaks are less easy to store in your garage and car, since they will occupy lots of space.

Inflatable kayaks, on the other hand, can be deflated and stored without too much fuss, which is very convenient.

Safety Consideration When Kayaking as an Elderly Person

1. Avoid Going Alone

Depending on your kayak experience, kayaking alone whether as a young or elderly person can be daunting due to the unpredictability of nature. For safety precautions, it is always better to go with a buddy, plus it is more fun to kayak with company!

If you must go solo, inform someone of where you are heading, and what time you are expected to return for emergency purposes. 

2. Pack Light

Pack light by bringing only the essential items, it will make your time while kayaking more enjoyable, especially during loading and unloading. 

The most essential things to pack in your dry bag are a water bottle, sunscreen, sun hat, headlamp, signaling whistle, and bilge pump.

3. Get a Good Paddle

A reliable paddle makes a difference when kayaking. You want to look for a lightweight paddle with a longer and narrower blade. This will make swinging more efficient and less strain on your body.

4. Get a Lightweight Kayak

A light kayak makes all the difference, especially for elderly individuals. A kayak of 40 lb or less is ideal for an elderly person. It is much easier to transport from your cart to the water and reduces physical strain during the loading and unloading process.

5. Slight Stretching Before and After a Paddle

The most important steps to remember for all ages. Before you get too excited to hop on your kayak and head out on your adventure, engage in gentle stretches before and after kayaking to prevent muscle injuries.

FAQs about Lightweight Kayak for Seniors

What Is The Lightest Kayak For Seniors? 

AdvancedFrame Ultralite Kayak is the best lightweight kayak for seniors in this regard, with only 17.5 pounds!It’s very affordable, has amazing tracking, and the sealed cockpit will protect you from the water, the sun and the wind.

What Is The Best Kayak For Older Adults?

The best kayak for the elderly is the Sea Eagle Fast Track 385.It’s an average-weight kayak, easy to carry, versatile and with awesome tracking. You will find yourself comfortably paddling in this kayak.

What Is The Easiest Kayak To Get In And Out Of?

Sit-on-top kayaks are usually easier to get in and out of than sit in kayaks. They are also a lot more stable, especially for those who are new and still getting used to kayaking. Additionally, they are also good for kayaking in warmer weathers since you are more likely to get a little wet!  

The easiest kayak to get in and out of, is the Perception Rambler 13.5. 

The open-cockpit design makes this possible, so you won’t find yourself with a hip hurt or losing your balance with this kayak.

What is the Best Kayak for Older Adults?

Top 5 best kayak for older adults that are lightweight:

1. Sea Eagle FastTrack 385
2. Advanced Frame Ultralite Kayak
3. Oru Foldable Kayak Beach
4. Perception Rambler 13.5
5. Intex Explorer K2

Are Lightweight Kayaks Good?

Are lighter kayaks better? Depending on your recreational purpose, you should consider a lightweight kayak if you are kayaking on gentle rivers, lakes and bays. Whereas if you are kayaking on strong currents or ocean, a heavy duty kayak can handle the intensity better than the lightweight kayak. 

What Size Kayak Do I Need for My Height and Weight?

When deciding which kayak is suitable for your height and weight, look out for the kayak maximum weight rating and make sure it does not exceed your weight. Factor in the total weight calculation including kayaking gears, and provide at least a 100 pound buffer between your weight and the gears with max weight capacity.

Final Thoughts

I hope now you have a better idea of what to buy with our post about lightweight kayaks for seniors.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for lightweight kayaks for seniors Australia, the US or another country, this guide will help you determine the perfect light weight kayaks for you, or at least, let you know what to look for when buying one. 

Do you have plans to go kayaking soon? Let me know about it in the comments below!

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