by Mal Grey » Wed Aug 17, 2022 2:12 pm
Decathlon's inflatable range are quite well respected for the price.
If you just want to go to a loch, paddle across it, then hit the hills, an inflatable kayak will be just fine. I would not recommend the really cheap sub-£100 types, but from a few hundred quid upwards they start to be pretty good.
If you also want to be able to carry it in your backpack, for multiple water crossings en-route for example, then you need a Packraft. Decathlon have also recently launched one of those, a friend has bought one, though not tried it for a proper trip.
Packrafts are more expensive than inflatables really, but that's because they have to be MUCH lighter.
Both types need to be used with care, and with the conditions taken under careful consideration, especially as inflatables are more affected by wind than "hard shell" canoes and kayaks. For example, don't set off with the wind behind you if its more than about 10mph, as you might not be able to get back against it. However, on a calm day, they open up a whole new raft of adventures (see what I did there? Sorry!).
It seems most newcomers to paddle sports are buying inflatable Stand Up Paddleboards now, but I wouldn't if you want to carry anything much more than lunch!