The best folding kayaks are absolutely amazing pieces of kit \u2013 you get a boat to go exploring in, but you don\u2019t need loads of space to store it, or a roofrack to transport it.Oru Bay STOwning your own kayak gives you the freedom to paddle wherever you like, whenever you like, but full-size boats are not the easiest thing to store or transport. This is where the best folding kayaks really come into their own.
\nEasy (or at least much easier) to stash when not in use, the best collapsible kayaks enable you to keep your boat in all kinds of handy places (from the garage or shed to a summerhouse or beach hut). And, with many fitting fairly easily into the back of a car or van, you can even take your kayak on holiday with you.
\nNot all boats are born equal, though. The very best folding kayaks shouldn\u2019t just be easy to move around and store, they also need to be simple and reasonably fast to put together and then disassemble post-paddle. And you also need to consider weight and, most importantly, performance on the water.
\nLike their rigid cousins, the best folding kayaks come in all shapes and sizes, the mechanisms vary enormously, and the cost can differ by a considerable amount. Before making a purchase, you need think about where you\u2019re most likely to paddle your collapsible craft, and in what sort of conditions.
\nHere we look at the premier collapsible paddle craft available today from various different kayak brands, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and help you choose the best folding kayak for your needs and enjoyment.
\nBest collapsible frame kayaks
\nThe TRAK 2.0 in action
\nTRAK 2.0
\nA premium-class collapsible kayak with excellent performance capability in a wide range of conditions
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a33,388 (UK) \/ $3,850 (US) \/ \u20ac3,868.95 (EU)
\n\u2022 Weight: 24kg\/53lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 490cm\/16ft
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 57cm\/22.5in
\n\u2022 Cockpit length: 77.5cm \/ 30.5in
\n\u2022 Cockpit width: 42cm \/ 16.5in
\n\u2022 Packed size: 104 x 48 x 22cm \/ 41 x 19 x 9in
\n\u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddler): 159kg \/ 350lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 10\u201320 minutes (with practice)
\nTRAK kayaks are high-performance, very versatile top-end boats, which can be used in a wide range of conditions, and the TRAK 2.0 Ultimate Touring Kayak is the flagship boat of the Canadian company\u2019s fleet.
\nThis 16ft collapsible craft offers near enough the same level of technical capability as a top-end, fully rigid touring kayak, but you can fold it down into a roll bag, so it\u2019s possible to chuck it in the back of the car or van and take it on holiday, opening up a world of exploring possibilities.
\nWith an excellent coaming for attaching a spraydeck, and some internal storage space, it\u2019s suitable for day touring or multi-day expeditions in all conditions. The frame, made with anodized aircraft-grade aluminum, is colour-coded (to make it easier to assemble) and treated to withstand salt and corrosion.
\nIt looks complicated, but each half fits together like tent poles and the skeleton is then strengthened by the addition of carbon fibre ribs, before being inserted into the skin, which is made from three-ply, expedition-grade polyurethane. The outer skin of the TRAK 2.0 is super tough and can survive smacks, bangs and encounters with all kinds of obstacles that would destroy most non-rigid kayaks.
\nOnce in position, the bow and stern are connected by a hydraulic tensioning system, which tightens the skin and can be tweaked for different levels of performance in a range of conditions.
\nThese boats are extremely adjustable \u2013 in fact they\u2019re pretty much the only kayaks on the market (foldable or rigid) that allow you to alter the boat\u2019s waterline and adjust the rocker (the amount of curve along the bottom of the hull) according to the kind of conditions you\u2019re paddling in.
\nYou can even change the rocker while you\u2019re on the water, making it more pronounced to give you better maneuverability in rough conditions, or straightening it out for more efficient glide for touring on flatter water.<\/p>\n
Although expensive, the TRAK 2.0 comes with a rolling travel bag, spray skirt, sea sock, two gear floatation bags and a load of MX5 kayak lubricant to keep the frame in good working order. It does take a bit of time to get good at putting TRAKs together and taking them apart, however, so don\u2019t rush it when you first start out.
\nYou also need keep on top of the maintenance, making sure the frame remains lubricated and in good working order (don\u2019t just pull it apart, throw it in the bag wet and expect it to be perfect months later).
\nBut, as this real time video demonstrates, it is very possible to go from paddling the TRAK 2.0 to having the whole thing rolled up and packed away in the bag within 5 minutes.<\/p>\n
Reasons to buy
\n\u2022 Excellent performance on the water
\n\u2022 Very tough
\n\u2022 Top quality carry case
\n\u2022 Five-year warranty
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 Can be fiddly to assemble
\n\u2022 Hard to repair
\n\u2022 Expensive
\nBuy the TRAK 2 now on OutdoorXL.eu
\nNote: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn\u2019t affect our editorial independence.<\/p>\n
Neris Alu-1 400 folding kayak
\nBackpack this boat to the waters edge, put the poles together, slide the skin on and enjoy a day\u2019s paddling
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a31,184
\n\u2022 Weight: 19kg\/42lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 400cm\/13ft
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 79cm\/31in
\n\u2022 Cockpit length: 200cm\/78.5in
\n\u2022 Cockpit width: 46cm\/18
\n\u2022 Packed size: 110 x 45 x 25cm \/ 43 x 18 x 10in
\n\u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddler): 150kg\/330lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 20\u201330 mins
\nNeris are a British brand that make a range of inflatable and foldable craft, from packrafts through to collapsible kayaks. Our pick here is the Alu-1, which is designed as a single-person kayak suitable for a range of one-day recreational paddling adventures and fishing trips on flat rivers, lakes, estuaries and bays. It does have a long, relatively open cockpit, so it can accommodate an adult with a small child (in calm waters).
\nInitially, it\u2019s wise to allow yourself plenty of time to put this kayak together before getting out on the water, but after a while the process will get much quicker and you\u2019ll have it done and be out on the water in no time.<\/p>\n
Like its cousins in the Alu range (which include 2- and 3-seater models), the Alu-1 has a collapsible aircraft-grade aluminum skeleton that slot together like tent poles (the longitudinal stringer set is made with anodized duralumin tubes, reinforced by a 20 x 35mm keel bar to prevent vertical bending in bigger waves and to keep the kayak skin proud of the frame, protecting it from damage in the event of a collision with underwater objects).
\nThe cross ribs are constructed from 11-layer, laminated, moisture-proof birch plywood \u2013 the kind typically used in yacht building. Two separate grades of high-quality marine grade PVC fabric are employed to create the kayak skin, which slides over the frame and is held securely in place by a washboard coaming design developed by Neris and based on sailing mast tracks.
\nThe tough hull is made with 1,050g density PVC, and lighter 620g material is used for the deck. The boat breaks down to fit into a backpack, which is included (along with an inflatable seat and a repair kit). Spray decks and steering systems are available, but you need to purchase them separately.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Robust
\n\u2022 Generous carry capacity
\n\u2022 Clever design
\n\u2022 Good backpack
\n\u2022 Rudder can be fitted (extra cost)
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 More fiddly assembly
\n\u2022 Large cockpit lets in water and chill
\n\u2022 No dry storage
\n\u2022 Not suitable for some sea conditions
\nBuy it now on neriskayaks.com<\/p>\n
Klepper Aerius Classic I+
\nThe original folding kayak has a classic design and is manufactured using premium materials, and it still performs as well as it did 100 years ago
\nSpecs
\n\u2022 Price: \u00a32,800 (UK) \/ $3,080 (US)
\n\u2022 Weight: 26kg \/ 57lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 490cm \/ 193in
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 72cm \/ 28in
\n\u2022 Packed size (2 bags): 133 x 35 x 25cm + 75 x 70 x 25cm \/ 52 x 14 x 10in + 20 x 5.5 x 10in
\n\u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddlers): 300kg \/ 661lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 12 minutes
\nWith a history stretching back over a century, Klepper boats were the first ever commercially-available folding kayaks, and the Aerius Classic is the one that\u2019s closest to the original design in a range that now includes several different models.
\nIn 1907, Johann Klepper, a Bavarian tailor and paddler from Rosenheim, conceived the idea of a foldable kayak that he could take anywhere. It turns out his desire for an aquatic freedom machine was one shared by many others, and Klepper\u2019s design became very popular in the 1930s, and remains so today, especially with traditionalists.
\nMade with top-quality materials, this one-person kayak can be put together in less than quarter of an hour, and is suitable for recreational paddling on rivers, lakes, estuaries and calm bays. It can also be fitted with a sail, which opens up a whole new world of fun opportunities.<\/p>\n
The hand-crafted frame is constructed with triple-dipped ash and birch, assembled with a snap-lock system. Over the top of the skeleton slides a thick, tough CSM skin, reinforced with keelstrips for extra abrasion resistance and topped off with a breathable, waterproof deck made from Egyptian cotton. Assembly is easy (after a bit of practice), and after you have finished paddling the whole thing breaks down and fits into two carry bags.
\nOther features include two air sponsons for extra stability; an adjustable, molded foam seat and backrest; and deck bungee and carrying toggle. For a Klepper folding kayak that can handle more challenging water, try the Aerius Expedition, which has a higher spec and can be paddled along the coast, or the shorter and more nimble Tramp (380 x 66cm \/150 x 26in), ideal for negotiating narrow rivers and whitewater up to class 3. The Classic and the Expedition models are also available as doubles.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Beautifully made with premium materials
\n\u2022 Classic design
\n\u2022 Compatible with a sail
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Bigger, bulkier and heavier than some others
\n\u2022 Two bags required to transport the craft
\n\u2022 Not capable of tackling most sea conditions
\nBuy it now on longhaulfoldingkayaks.com
\nBest origami-style kayaks<\/p>\n
Oru Bay ST
\nThe original origami-style kayak, which comes flat packed and folds into a sea-going freedom machine
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a31,415 (UK) \/ \u20ac1,599 (EU)
\n\u2022 Weight: 11.8kg \/ 26lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 373cm \/ 12ft 3in
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 64cm \/ 25in
\n\u2022 Packed size: 84 x 36 x 74cm \/ 33 x 14 x 29in
\n\u2022 In-boat storage: 90L
\n\u2022 Max paddler height: 190.5cm \/ 6ft 3in
\n\u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddler): 136kg \/ 300lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 10\u201315 minutes
\nBased on the original origami boat that propelled Oru Kayak into the water in the first place, the new iteration of the Oru Bay ST is a robust and versatile closed-cockpit kayak that you can paddle in a variety of conditions, from lakes and rivers to reasonably challenging seas.
\nLike the rest of the Oru family, the craft comes virtually flat-packed in a large carry bag, and then folds out to transform into a sleek touring kayak, with a performance profile. The Bay ST boasts dry storage capacity behind the removable bulkheads at the back, for overnight trips, and decklines and bungees on the front can be used for stashing extra kit.<\/p>\n
Once assembled (which takes around 20 minutes) watertight zipper channels seal the deck, and carry handles make it easy to carry to the water in pairs (although it\u2019s light enough to cart solo). There\u2019s a comfortable, padded seat and a fully adjustable backrest, and you can attach a spraydeck to the coaming around the cockpit.
\nInnovations on the new model include aluminum cockpit latches and extra-reinforced strap anchor points for increased durability. The translucent white hull of the Bay ST can be illuminated from the inside during night paddles, which looks amazing out on the moonlit water.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Lightweight
\n\u2022 Versatile and capable in a range of conditions
\n\u2022 Easy to store and transport
\n\u2022 Good dry storage
\n\u2022 Great features
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 No rudder
\n\u2022 Hard to repair
\n\u2022 No colour options
\nBuy the Oru Bay ST on Amazon
\nBuy the Oru Bay ST on orukayak.com
\nBest multi-section kayaks<\/p>\n
Pakayak Bluefin 142
\nA clever clip-together craft with pieces that fit ingeniously inside one another for easy transportation, and then combine to form a rigid high-performance kayak
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a32,729 (UK) \/ $1,995 (US)
\n\u2022 Weight: 27kg\/59lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 432cm \/ 14ft 2in
\n\u2022 Packed size: 107cm \/ 42in
\n\u2022 Cockpit: 46 x 90cm \/ 18 x 35.5in
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 5 minutes
\nThe Bluefin 142 is the newer and slightly longer model of an ingenious compartmentalised kayak that was originally launched in 2016, following a massively successful Kickstarter campaign.<\/p>\n
This brilliant boat breaks down into six pieces, five of which can be swallowed up into body of the largest one, like a set of Russian Babushka dolls. The whole ensemble then fits tidily into a zipper bag for easy storage and transportation.
\nIt\u2019s not as light as some other collapsible kayaks, but the bag has wheels, which makes it easier to move around. When you put the boat back together, which can be done in a matter of minutes, you have a top-notch sea kayak complete with a sophisticated cockpit with coaming for a sprayskirt and a comfortable seat, which is capable of taking on near enough anything.<\/p>\n
The manufacturer\u2019s patented clamping system swiftly secures each section together with a durable water-tight seal, and then you\u2019re off. The on-water performance levels of the Bluefin 142 are just as good as any other high-end plastic kayak on the market, and with dry storage compartments fore and aft, plus bungee cords for easy-access extra storage, it can be used for day touring trips or overnight adventures.
\nAnd yet it\u2019s so much easier to move around and store than your typical 4-metre plus boat \u2013 in fact you can just pop it in corner of the garage, or slide it into the back of the car or van.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Looks and feels like a fully rigid kayak
\n\u2022 Handles well, even on technical water
\n\u2022 Super quick and easy to assemble
\n\u2022 Decent dry storage
\n\u2022 Transport pack has wheels
\n\u2022 Good range of colours
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 Quite heavy
\n\u2022 Bulky to transport
\n\u2022 Expensive
\nBuy it now on pakayak.com
\nBest inflatable kayaks<\/p>\n
Decathlon Itiwit X500
\nYou can get on the water in minutes with this quickly inflatable folding kayak, available at an affordable price
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a3699.99 (UK) \/ $899 (US) \/ \u20ac620 (EU)
\n\u2022 Weight: 18kg\/40lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 380cm \/ 12ft 5.5in
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 64cm \/ 25in
\n\u2022 Packed size: 94 x 50 x 27cm \/ 37 x 19.7 x 10.6in
\n \u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddler): 125kg\/276lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 5 mins
\nConceived in response to feedback from paddlers who were seeking an inflatable kayak that had the performance qualities close to that of a rigid boat, the Itiwit X500 was designed by a naval architect.<\/p>\n
The Itiwit packs down into a decent backpack (included) for easy transportation (and storage), and it is extremely quick to assemble. You simply inflate the large chamber (the floor) to 10 PSI max (0.7 bar), followed by the mid-sized chambers (the sides), then the small chambers (the arches), and then insert the footrests, fit the seat and adjust the backrests. Once you\u2019ve done it a couple of times, you can be on the water in five minutes flat.
\nYou\u2019re not going to get the full range of technical capability offered by a real rigid kayak, but the Itiwit is definitely good enough for intermediate paddlers to take out on most rivers, all lakes and in a range of sea conditions.
\nThe raised coaming around the cockpit means you can use a spraydeck (sold separately), so it\u2019s boat for all seasons. There\u2019s a cargo area at the rear, and bungees on the front for easy-access storage. The bow and stern are coloured bright orange, to improve the visibility of the kayak to other bigger boats, for safety reasons.<\/p>\n
The obvious weakness of inflatable kayaks is the potential of suffering a puncture. However, the Itiwit has five independent \u2018air chambers\u2019, and even if two of these deflate due to damage, the kayak will still float sufficiently to get you back to shore, and punctures can then be fixed (a repair kit is included).
\nThat said, obviously it\u2019s highly advisable to avoid paddling close to sharp reefs and shell-covered rocks. The Itiwit X500 is made with two layers of tough PVC, with a drop-stitch mesh that holds the shape of the boat nicely. The price of this boat is pretty reasonable, but annoyingly you do need to buy the pump separately.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Very quick assembly
\n\u2022 Excellent, easily adjustable footrests
\n\u2022 Comfortable foam seat
\n\u2022 5 independent air chambers lowers the risk of catastrophic puncture
\n\u2022 Easily repairable
\n\u2022 Good price
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 Handpump not supplied
\n\u2022 Can\u2019t be paddled next to sharp objects
\n\u2022 Not great in wind
\nBuy the Itwit X500 inflatable kayak on Decathlon<\/p>\n
Sevylor Adventure Inflatable Kayak
\nAn inflatable fair-weather kayak perfect for families or pairs of paddlers that\u2019s quick to assemble easy to get on the water
\nSpecs
\n\u00a0\u2022 Price: \u00a3390
\n\u2022 Weight: 12.5kg\/28lb
\n\u2022 Length (assembled): 314cm \/ 124in
\n\u2022 Width (assembled): 88cm \/ 35in
\n\u2022 Packed size: 20 x 118 x 32cm \/ 8 x 46 x 13in
\n\u2022 Cockpit: Open
\n\u2022 Maximum carry weight (including paddlers): 165kg\/364lb
\n\u2022 Set-up time: 5\u201310 minutes
\nBlurring the distinction between kayak and canoe, the Sevylor Adventure has an open cockpit and can be propelled with a double-bladed kayaking paddle or a single-blade canoe oar. Either way, affordably priced and fairly quick and easy to inflate and get on the water, this boat is perfect for couples or families looking to get out and have a bit of fun on the water without taking on anything too serious.<\/p>\n
Capable of carrying two adults, or one adult and a couple of kids (or various other combinations), it\u2019s ideal for gentle river trips, exploring lakes and bays, and for days at the beach when the conditions are calm. You can\u2019t enclose the cockpit with a proper skirt, so it\u2019s best suited for fair weather paddling in warmer weather, but there are small integrated spraydecks at the stern and bow to help keep splashing water out, and the walls of the boat are also high.
\nThere are two seats \u2013 both easily removed, depending on the configuration you\u2019re going with. The Adventure has a flat bottom, and the lack of rocker means it\u2019s not the most maneuverable boat out there, but the removable fin adds some tracking capability (remember to fit it before you inflate the boat).
\nGenerously proportioned, the Adventure is wide in the middle, and it\u2019s a forgiving and stable craft that\u2019s suitable for beginners. Made with tough, heavy duty PVC, there are three air chambers, which will give you some peace of mind in the event of an on-water puncture, and inflation\/deflation is quick and simple, using Boston, Mini Boston and Mini Double Lock valves. It comes with an Easy Inflation manometer (for checking pressure) a carry bag, foot pump and a pair of basic paddles.
\nReasons to buy
\n\u2022 Relatively lightweight
\n\u2022 Quick assembly
\n\u2022 Drains well
\n\u2022 Great kayak for families
\nReasons to avoid
\n\u2022 Open cockpit (suitable for fair weather paddling only)
\n\u2022 Not very maneuverable
\n\u2022 Not great in high winds
\nBuy it now on Amazon
\nBuy it now on eBay
\nWhat to look for in the best folding kayaks
\nJust like rigid boats, the best folding kayaks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, with a variety of technologies employed enabling them to be collapsed for easy transportation and compact storage. What constitutes the best folding kayak for you will depend upon several things. Before making a purchase you should think very carefully about where and when you are most likely to be using the kayak. The following factors are also well worth taking into consideration too.<\/p>\n
Style
\nSure, having a folding kayak will mean you can explore more and even take your boat on holiday, but what kind of paddling are you going to be doing, most of the time? If you\u2019re an out-and-out touring sea kayaker, consider the Oru Bay ST or the Pakayak Bluefin, but if rivers and lakes are more your style, the Klepper Aerius Classic or Neris Alu is a better option. The TRAK 2.0 can do a bit of everything, while the inflatables are great for families and beginners.
\nTechnology and design
\nAgain, this comes down to what sort of kayaker you are and who you are likely to be paddling with. If you\u2019re likely to be surrounded by kids, impatient to get out on the water, then an inflatable is definitely best.
\nFolding frame boats can be fiddly until you get the hang of them, and will probably take longer to assemble and take apart than you expect. Allow yourself enough time to do this right, in reasonable conditions, otherwise you might damage the boat through error and frustration (and they\u2019re not cheap).
\nFrame kayaks require some TLC and maintenance \u2013 don\u2019t neglect to oil them and look after all the moving parts. No matter what kayak you go for, avoid putting it away wet, especially if you\u2019re not sure when you\u2019ll next use it. After use on saltwater, it\u2019s always worth washing your boat down with fresh water.<\/p>\n
Collapsed size
\nDifferent-sized kayaks lend themselves to various forms of paddling \u2013 sea touring boats are long, while whitewater creek and playboats are short and nimble \u2013 but you also need to look carefully at how big the kayak you are considering is when it\u2019s folded and packed away. While all folding kayaks are easier to store and transport than rigid boats, the size of the carry bags does vary a lot. If it doesn\u2019t fit in your vehicle or garage, you\u2019re wasting your money.
\nWeight and carry bag
\nIt\u2019s not just size that you need to take into account when you\u2019re thinking about transporting your boat. The best folding kayak for you is the one that you can actually pick up and move from your vehicle to the waterside \u2013 if you go for a model that\u2019s too heavy for you to handle, you won\u2019t end up using it much, even if it\u2019s fantastic on the water.
\nLook carefully at the quality of the carry bag, too \u2013 if it fails, you will find it hard to manage your boat (without buying a replacement bag), so a sturdy bag \u2013 with wheels if the boat is on the heavy side \u2013 is ideal.<\/p>\n
Features and inclusions
\nJust because a boat is collapsible, that doesn\u2019t mean it can\u2019t be well featured. The best folding kayaks should all come with comfortable seats and carry bags, but depending on the style, they may also boast sophisticated cockpits with raised coaming for attaching sprayskirts, plus storage areas, bungees, perimeter safety lines and carry toggles\/handles.
\nCheck to see what comes with your kayak \u2013 some are simply sold as bare boats, but with others you can occasionally buy a kit that includes spraydecks\/skirts, maintenance and repair kits, paddles and (for inflatables) a pump.
\nPrice
\nFor the best folding kayak, you\u2019re going to be making a significant outlay, n0 question about that, but some are cheaper than others. The more often you get out on the water, the better value your boat becomes. Fairweather paddlers might be better with an affordable inflatable at first, but if you appreciate fine craftsmanship and excellent design, the Klepper Aerius and TRAK kayaks are beautiful things to behold, while both the Oru Bay ST and the Pakayak Bluefin are truly ingenious designs.
\nDurability and repair
\nAs we\u2019ve mentioned, you\u2019re going to be spending a fair amount of fold on the best collapsible kayak, so you will want it to last. Anything that folds is prone to failure to some extent, but we have selected the more robust models here. The Pakayak Bluefin is pretty bulletproof.
\nThe frame kayaks are constructed with tough materials (especially the TRAK 2.0), and the inflatables are also more resilient than they look (and can be easily repaired). Several models offer generous warrantees, just make sure you read the small print and then look after the boats with the care they deserve.<\/p>\n
Didn\u2019t find what you\u2019re looking for? Head to Amazon\u2019s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.
\nThe post Best folding kayaks: Your guide to collapsible, foldable, inflatable and detachable paddling craft appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The best folding kayaks are absolutely amazing pieces of kit \u2013 you get a boat to go exploring in, but you don\u2019t need loads of space to store it, or a roofrack to transport it.Oru Bay STOwning your own kayak … <\/p>\n