Are inflatable kayaks stable enough for some one to learn in?

Hello Davie, I use inflatables to introduce beginners to moving water. They are stable, quite responsive and allow the paddler to experience the ever changing environment of moving water. They can do this with confidence and not have the constant fear of capsizing making their experience less enjoyable. Enjoyment is a great learning medium and I have many paddlers quickly introduced to a biggish moving water environment who then progress to solid kayaks very quickly and with the skills of operating on white water already in place find the transition a very positive experience.



Inflatable kayaks are also awesomely versatile and can operate in many situations. we use ours in the surf, on flat water and up to grade 5 river running all with great success.



I hope this helps you a bit.Are inflatable kayaks stable enough for some one to learn in?
A qualified, yes. Inflatable kayaks are soft and that makes them hard to turn. Often paddling energy is lost because of the hysteresis effect. The kayak structure absorbs some of the paddling effect. Rigid kayaks respond instantly to a paddle stroke assuming that the paddler is seated correctly and has his feet braced on foot blocks. Next: try rolling an inflatable, Chances are that it is very difficult to maintain your 'seat'. I don't know of any kayak school that uses inflatable kayaks to teach with. I have never seen or heard of an inflatable kayak being used in any kind of a competition. If you simply want a boat to 'play' around with, go with the inflatable. If you want to experience real kayaking learn in a rigid boat.Are inflatable kayaks stable enough for some one to learn in?
An inflatable kayak is just as safe to use as a hard-shell kayak. In fact, because of the buoyancy of the inflated chambers, inflatables are safer to use than traditional boats and preferred by the coast guard as offshore rescue vessels. Inflatables are almost impossible to capsize and handle better in rough water. Several air chambers assure buoyancy even if one chamber looses air pressure due to a leak. They are one of the best options for learning.

Touring, offshore and whitewater kayaks are available for one and two persons. Inflatable kayaks are easy to paddle and compete favorably with expensive fiberglass models.

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