Are you torn between the thrill of paddling a kayak and the zen of balance on a paddle board? We’ve got the ultimate solution: An inflatable paddle board kayak that combines the best of both worlds.

This guide is your ticket to finding stability, durability, and fun on water in one convenient package. Dive in as we reveal top picks and savvy tips to get you ready for adventure!

Looking for our best paddle board product recommendations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Buyer Guides

What to Look for in an Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Combo

When considering an inflatable paddle board kayak combo, it’s important to look for versatility, stability, size, and durability. These factors will ensure a great experience on the water.

Versatility

With these combos, transitioning from a SUP to a kayak is effortless, often requiring only the addition or rearrangement of seats and paddles. They cater not just to solo adventures but also welcome friends or family members onboard due to their high weight capacity.

Whether gliding through tranquil lakes or navigating along flowing rivers, an inflatable SUP kayak provides endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment in outdoor recreation.

Stability

Stability is crucial for anyone hitting the water, whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out. Inflatable paddle board kayak combos need to provide a solid platform that won’t easily tip over, ensuring you stay dry and secure while you navigate through calm lakes or more challenging waves.

A stable paddle board kayak hybrid allows for smooth transitions between standing up and sitting down without compromising your balance.

Look for inflatable SUP kayak models with wider bases and thicker materials which give extra steadiness on the water. This feature is especially important if you plan on having gear with you or if multiple people will use the combo.

Good stability means better control and ease of use, so it’s essential to consider this factor when selecting your paddling gear to ensure an enjoyable experience on any body of water.

Size

Choosing the right size in a paddle board kayak combo is crucial for both comfort and function. Larger boards offer more stability and space, which can be beneficial for beginners or those planning to carry extra gear or companions.

However, they might be harder to maneuver and heavier to transport. On the other hand, smaller boards are nimble and easier to handle, making them ideal for solo adventurers or people with limited storage space.

Consider your body weight and height when selecting a hybrid paddleboard kayak. High weight capacity models like the SUP from South Bay Board Co.’s Hippocamp kit can hold multiple users or larger paddlers with ease.

If you’re eyeing solitude on calm waters, look into something like the Tucktec Folding inflatable kayak that caters well to smaller individuals. Remember that your choice should align with how you plan to use it – casual recreation versus longer expeditions – so think about what experiences you want out on the water before making a decision.

Durability

Consider the durability of the inflatable paddle board kayak combo, as it will impact its longevity and performance. Look for strong materials like military-grade PVC and reinforced seams to ensure lasting quality.

Ensure that the combo can withstand wear and tear from regular use and is resistant to punctures and abrasions for peace of mind during water adventures.

Look for features such as a non-slip surface or a protective layer to prevent damage from sun exposure and rough handling. It’s also essential to check user reviews for feedback on overall durability, helping you make an informed decision before making your purchase.

Top 6 Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Combos

Discover the top 6 inflatable paddle board kayak combos that offer versatility and stability for your water adventures. Read on to find the perfect hybrid paddle board kayak for your next outdoor excursion.

Category	Inflatable Paddle Board Kayak Combo
Best Performance Board	ISLE Switch SUP
Best Everyday Board	Bluefin Cruise Carbon SUP
Best Budget Board	Roc Premium SUP
Best For The Whole Family	Freein 10’6″ SUP
Best For Beginners	MYBOAT Extra Wide SUP
Best For Comfort	iTAOSTAR Journey

#1: ISLE Switch SUP (Best Performance Board)

The ISLE Switch Inflatable Hybrid Kayak-Stand Up Paddle Board is a top pick for those who want the best of both worlds in water sports. It’s super versatile, allowing you to switch between a kayak and a paddleboard in just seconds, thanks to its innovative ISLE-LINK connect system.

What makes it stand out? Well, it’s ultra-lightweight at just 19 pounds, making it the lightest combo kayak and stand up paddle board out there.

Plus, it’s super sturdy and can hold up to 425 lbs. You’ll get maximum comfort whether you’re standing, sitting, or even doing yoga, with a full-length traction pad and a comfy kayak seat. It’s also great for solo or tandem use and comes with all the gear you need, like a paddle, pump, and travel bag.

In short, it’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for performance, versatility, and comfort on the water.

PROS	CONS
– Can convert it from a SUP into a kayak in seconds – The EVA deck pad is large and covers the entire surface so you can move around as much as you want – Super lightweight board at only 19 lbs so anyone can carry it – The kayak seat is high-quality and there is also a foot brace included – High performing board that’s fast and nimble in most conditions.	– Limited accessory mounting options for things like cameras or fishing rod holders – The paddle isn’t the best – I would have preferred a carbon fiber paddle to match the board

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#2: Bluefin Cruise Carbon SUP (Best Everyday Board)

The Bluefin Cruise SUP Package is a fantastic choice for an everyday paddleboard that can handle any condition. It’s got some really high-performance design features, like a carbon composite rail and Exo Surface Laminate, making it one of the most rigid and stable inflatable boards around.

What’s unique? It includes a FRS (Flex Reduction System) for an ideal balance of stiffness and flexibility. Plus, it has an advanced Air Duo inflation system, boosting the board’s rigidity and ensuring it performs well in various conditions, from cutting through waves to tracking well on flat water.

The package also comes with a carbon fibre paddle and a kayak conversion kit, adding to its versatility. And with Bluefin’s commitment to the environment, they plant a tree for every purchase.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable, all-rounder SUP, the Bluefin Cruise is a solid bet.

PROS	CONS
– Performs really well in many conditions including choppy water – Love the paddle! It’s really nice and gives you great acceleration on the water – 5 different accessory mounting points on the board for things like cup holders, cameras and phones	– Flexes in the water when paddling hard or bouncing on the board – Pricier than other boards

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#3: ROC Premium SUP (Best Budget Board)

The Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is a solid choice for anyone into paddleboarding, whether you’re a newbie or a pro. What’s cool about it? First off, it’s made from high-grade material that’s 50% stronger than what you’d find in other boards, so it’s super durable.

It can support up to a whopping 350 lbs, making it one of the safest and most reliable boards out there. The board’s extra-wide design adds to its stability, making it great for all skill levels.

Plus, it comes with some top-notch accessories, which is always a bonus. Roc also offers a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, showing they really stand behind their product. And if you like supporting local, you’ll be glad to know Roc is the only USA-owned and based paddleboard company on Amazon, with great customer service to boot.

So, if you’re looking to join the paddleboarding world, the Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board is definitely worth checking out.

PROS	CONS
– Incredible price – Solid performance: It is maneuverable and stable on the water – Quick and easy to inflate and have out on the water – High quality materials considering its price	– Struggles in the sea or choppy water – The EVA deck pad is a little small and only have space for your feet when you use the seat – The kayak seat is basic but still serves it’s purpose.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#4: Freein Hybrid SUP (Best For The Whole Family)

The Freein Stand Up Paddle Board is an awesome choice for family fun on the water. It’s perfect for everyone, from beginners to more experienced paddlers. The board’s size (10’6″ x 31″ x 6″) and stability make it ideal for both kids and adults, and you can even bring your pets along!

It comes with a kayak seat for those just starting out, and you can remove it when you’re ready to stand up and paddle. The D-ring design makes switching between kayak and SUP modes a breeze, and there’s even a spot to mount a Go-pro camera to capture those memorable moments.

Plus, it’s super light and portable, so even the younger ones can carry it. And with a two-year warranty, it’s a worry-free choice for family adventures on the water.

PROS	CONS
– Great price for a SUP kayak that the entire family can use – The smaller size and high buoyancy make it easy to use for children and small women. – The seat is comfortable and gives you nice back support – The bag is really high quality	– The paddle is generic and average. You might want to look into getting another paddle – The accessories are a little more limited in quality because of how affordable the board is (they cut costs here)

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#5: MYBOAT Extra Wide SUP (Best For Beginners)

The MYBOAT Inflatable Paddle Board is ideal for beginners eager to explore paddleboarding, especially for those interested in fishing. Its extra-wide design (34 inches) provides outstanding stability, making it easy for newbies to balance and stand up.

The board has a generous weight limit of 430 lbs, meaning it’s spacious enough for adults, kids, or even two riders, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families or friends. Additionally, it comes equipped with a fishing rod holder and a kayak seat, adding versatility for those leisurely moments.

Safety handles and a camera mount are thoughtful touches for added security and capturing fun moments. The complete kit, including a hand pump, fins, and a dry bag, makes it perfect for a variety of skill levels and activities, from SUP yoga to fishing.

Plus, MYBOAT’s 24-hour customer service and 1-year warranty offer peace of mind because you can always contact them and ask questions.

PROS	CONS
– Great stability and easy use makes it perfect for beginners – The pointed nose makes it handle well in rougher waters – Tri-fin setup makes it nice and stable to use – Has lots of different accessories included – mainly for fishing	– Less maneuverable on the water because of it’s bigger size. – Difficult to inflate so consider getting an electric SUP pump

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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#6: iTAOSTAR Journey (Best For Comfort)

The iTAOSTAR Journey Paddle Board is a fantastic choice for comfort on the water. Its extra-wide 34″ design enhances balance, making it super stable and user-friendly for adults and youth of all skill levels. The board can comfortably hold up to 420 lbs, great for riding with a friend or pet.

For added comfort, it includes an ergonomic inflatable seat and footrest, perfect for those who want the feel of a kayak. The luxury 3-layer side rails add durability and safety, ensuring a secure experience. Plus, the board comes with handy features like a cup holder and camera mount, letting you capture your adventures and stay hydrated. The upgraded two-action fast pump makes inflation quick and easy.

With these features, the iTAOSTAR Journey offers a uniquely comfortable and enjoyable paddling experience. When it comes to an inflatable paddle board kayak combo – this is a really good bet!

PROS	CONS
– The seat is very comfortable and you can sit on it for hours without pain – The deck is soft and squishy under your knees – Large EVA deck pad so you can move around on the board – Beautiful design & easy to see in the water – Good performance in all conditions	– The accessories are a little more generic – The one side fin because quite loose so I ended up taking them out and using one fin – The pump struggles a bit so consider an electric pump.

Check Price ➡️ Amazon

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Other Key Considerations

Explore the paddle board and kayak features, accessories included, and portability options. Read on to find the perfect combo for your next water adventure.

Accessories included

Each inflatable paddle board kayak combo comes with a variety of accessories to enhance your experience on the water. Some common accessories included are adjustable paddles, removable fins, high-pressure pumps for quick inflation, repair kits for minor damages, and carrying bags for easy transportation.

Additional features like bungee cargo areas and D-rings provide convenient storage options while out on the water. These accessories contribute to the versatility and convenience of the paddle board kayak combos, ensuring that you have everything you need for an enjoyable day of paddling.

When considering a purchase, it’s important to review the specific accessories provided with each combo to ensure they meet your needs. Factors such as paddle material and length, pump efficiency and portability, as well as storage bag durability can significantly impact your overall experience with the inflatable paddle board kayak combo.

Here are my favorite paddle board accessories of 2024: The 23 Best Paddleboard Accessories That You Need In 2024

Portability and storage options

Inflatable paddle board kayak combos are prized for their ease of transport and storage. Their inflatable nature allows them to be deflated, rolled up, and stored in a compact carrying bag, making them suitable for road trips, hikes to remote waters, or flights to exotic destinations.

The lightweight construction of these hybrids also eliminates the need for a roof rack or trailer hitch when transporting them. Given their portability, users can easily bring them along on camping excursions or other outdoor adventures without worrying about space constraints.

It’s important to note that many inflatable paddle board kayak combos come with convenient storage solutions such as bungee cords, D-rings, or cargo nets that allow users to secure gear and supplies while paddling.

Here’s what you need to know about storage and transport: The 8 Best Paddle Board Racks For Easy Transport & Storage (2024 Edition)

Conclusion

Explore the water with the best paddle board kayak combos. Enjoy versatile and enjoyable experiences on the water. Discover the ideal balance of stability, speed, and ease of use. Choose from a variety of top-rated inflatable SUP kayaks for your outdoor adventures.

Find the perfect combo for your paddling needs today!

Looking for insider guides to some amazing paddle boarding locations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Location Guides

FAQs

Can a paddle board be used as a kayak?

Yes, many paddle boards, especially hybrid models, can be converted into kayaks with additional accessories like seats and dual-function paddles.

Read this post for information on paddle board seats: 10 World-Class Paddleboard Seats To Try In 2024

Can you put a kayak seat on an inflatable paddle board?

Yes, you can attach a kayak seat to many inflatable paddle boards using D-rings, making them versatile for both paddling and kayaking.

What are the disadvantages of inflatable paddle boards?

Inflatable paddle boards may not match hard boards in speed and agility, require time for inflation, are prone to punctures, and need regular maintenance.

You can easily inflate your SUP with an electric pump: The 9 Best Electric Paddleboard Air Pumps Of 2024

Is it worth buying an inflatable paddle board?

Inflatable paddle boards are a good investment for those valuing portability, versatility, and ease of storage, especially for recreational use.

Here is a detailed answer to this question: Are Inflatable Paddle Boards Good? The Answer May Surprise You…

Is it harder to paddle board or kayak?

Paddle boarding typically demands more balance and core strength as it’s done standing up, while kayaking requires more upper body strength but offers more stability as you’re seated.