Inflatable canoes have become much more popular in recent years and can be a great way to get out and enjoy the water. However, it is sometimes difficult to know whether to choose an inflatable canoe or a rigid-hulled canoe.
There are several pros and cons to owning and using an inflatable model. After many years of paddling both types, I am well aware of both the pros and cons. I will go through each one below.
advantage
portability
Without a doubt, an inflatable kayak or canoe is extremely portable. I have had hard shell kayaks that I have strapped to racks on top of my car. I found the whole process of transporting a rigid shell boat inconvenient and exhausting. Unless I had a friend come along to help me out, it was hard for me to get my kayak off the top of my car on my own.
When my inflatable is deflated and rolled up in its storage bag, I simply place it in the trunk of my car along with all my gear and go. Weight may vary with inflatables depending on the model you choose. However, many are easy to carry by one person, and some models are so light that they can even be carried in a backpack. They are highly portable.
easy storage
A rigid-shell canoe or kayak needs its own storage space or a shelf in your garage. However, for people like me who live in a condo, this is not always an option. An inflatable canoe can be stored in a closet or any small space. They are fantastic for those who live in small places.
easy care
I think canoes in general are pretty easy to care for. An inflatable only needs to be dried so that it is free of mold and mildew and then sprayed from time to time with a UV protective spray. As long as it is stored in a cool dry place it will last you many, many years with very little wear and tear.
If your canoe ever breaks or leaks (which doesn’t happen often), just fix it with the repair kit that came with it.
affordability
Although prices can vary greatly depending on the type of canoe you purchase, as a general rule of thumb, I have found that inflatable models cost less than a rigid model. For this reason, they are great for family use, travel, fishing, or just outdoor recreational fun.
Stability
They are extremely stable. Most inflatable canoes have pontoon-like sides that make the boat nearly impossible to capsize. They are great for kids, families, and people of all ages, as they are extremely safe.
Cons
Speed
As a general rule, a hard shell canoe will paddle faster than an inflatable. Inflatables tend to be a bit wider and consequently don’t reach the same speeds… although some are much better than others.
punctures
I have been paddling kayaks and inflatable canoes for many years and have never actually had a flat. However, it can happen if you are paddling over sticks or sharp objects. Therefore, it is advisable not to paddle an inflatable in very shallow water or in areas where there are known to be sharp sticks or objects sticking out of the water.
Before buying your inflatable canoe, be sure to read reviews as models can vary greatly.