Wrap It Up: The Best Folding Kayaks for Ultimate Freedom

What's the best part about kayaking? Gliding along glass-like shorelines? Sure. Checking out the local wildlife? You bet. Schlepping that big heavy fishing kayak into the water? Not so much. Unfortunately, as calm and peaceful as kayaking can be, getting the thing into the water can make you want to scream a few choice words. Then there's the whole strapping it down to your roof dilemma. Fortunately, there's a solution to all of that. A folding kayak!
What Is a Folding Kayak?
Folding kayaks have collapsible frames that do just what the name says. They fold. Typically, there's a durable piece of fabric that covers the frame once it's unfolded. Being folded (rather than one solid and non-flexible piece of metal or acrylic) means that it's easier to store, easier to transport and easier to carry to the water. The suitcase-style ones are super cool. The only downside (that I can see) to a folding kayak is that they do have a fold rating. This means that there's a certain number of times it can be folded and unfolded before you would need to replace it. The upside is most are rated for upwards of 20,000 folds, which is quite a lot of time.Reasons to Consider a Folding Kayak
A folding kayak can come in handy for many reasons. Here are just a few:- They're easy to transport, stow and carry
- If you don't have or want a roof rack
- If you don't have a friend that has a roof rack
- They can be taken with you (as checked baggage) on airplanes
- Use it as an easy-to-store dinghy or tender on your boat
Features of the Best Folding Kayaks
Folding kayaks are sometimes confused with inflatable kayaks. The set-up is what makes the two different. Inflatable kayaks are inflated (blown up with a pump), while folding kayaks fold down into a small size. So, technically, an inflatable kayak can fold. But a folding kayak is not inflatable. Make sense? Besides that cool folding factor, the best folding kayaks should offer the same top-quality features as any other kayak. Check out a few more features of the best folding kayaks.- Easy Assembly You'll want to findand try outthe folding mechanism before purchasing a folding kayak. Make sure it's easy for you to carry and put together (as well as take apart). If it's too complex, you're not going to find it enjoyable at all.
- Durability You're gonna want to find a folding kayak made out of a sturdy material such as polypropylene. This is to be sure it will hold up to weight and many times of putting together and taking apart.
- UV and Weather Resistance UV and weather resistance kind of go along with durability. You'll want to find something that isn't going to fade, peel or rust in the sun and water. UV coatings are great in the outdoor sporting world.
- Waterproof Seals Since it's going to be folding, make sure there are waterproof aspects such as seam covers over the connection points.
- Light Weight Practice carrying the folding kayak. If you're going to be kayaking solo, you'll want to be sure it's not too heavy to carry solo.
The Best Folding Kayaks for Ultimate Freedom
Coovy MyCanoe 2.5 Origami Folding Canoe
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MYCANOE 2.5 Origami Folding Foldable Canoe Portable Collapsible Paddle Boat
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- Size: 14' L x 35" W
- Folded Size: 37" x 8" x 25"
- Carry Weight: 52 lbs
- Maximum Load: 440 lbs
Elevens Cruise Plus Foldable and Portable Kayak
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Elevens Cruise Plus Foldable and Portable Kayak (RED)
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- Size: 12.8' L X 23.6" W x 14.2" D
- Folded Size: 34" x 30" x 14"
- Carry Weight: 30 lbs
- Maximum Load: 200 lbs
Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak Beach LT
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- Size: 12' L x 28" W
- Folded Size: 33" x 12" x 29"
- Carry Weight: 28 lbs
- Maximum Load: 300 lbs
Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak Bay ST
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- Size: 12' L x 25" W
- Folded Size: 33" x 12" x 29"
- Carry Weight: 28 lbs
- Maximum Load: 300 lbs
Tuctec Folding Kayak 10 Feet Hard Shell
Check price on Amazon At 10 feet long, this is a great choice for use as a dinghy or tender on your boat. It weighs about 30 pounds when folded and has a solid hard-shell. It's made from a single sheet of 1/8 inch solid HDPE that won't puncture. It sets up in about two minutes with six heavy-duty clamps that latch. The streamlined design and wide flat bottom provide stability and smooth sailing. A seat is included.- Size: 10' L x 14" D
- Folded Size: 48"x 15" x 8"
- Carry Weight: 30 lbs
- Maximum Load: 350 lbs
Folding Kayak Accessories
Seals Coastal Tour Spray Skirt
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Essential Marine Products Scupper Plugs
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Essential Marine Products Universal Scupper Plug Kit (4)
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Mexidi PVC Inflatable Kayak Outrigger Stabilizer Kit
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Oru Kayak Pack
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