Do you like kayaking in different water conditions? With the rising popularity of kayaking, people tend to buy versatile kayaks suitable for all conditions. However, it does have a problem. Guess what is it?
Most kayaks are usually made for a certain water type and therefore it is costly to get a kayak for every purpose- fishing, touring or sporting. Finding the best crossover kayak will rescue you from this problem since these kayaks are perfect for almost every water type.
Our list of the Best Crossover Kayaks will help you find the right one you are looking for. Don’t miss anything and go through the article till the end. You will learn everything in detail and find the perfect crossover kayak for your purpose.
What is a Crossover Kayak?
Crossover kayaks are specially designed to give an all-around performance. They are made for kayakers of any level whether beginners or experts. No matter whether the water is smooth or rough, you can get past it easily with any of these types of kayaks.
Crossover kayaks are different from any of the traditional kayak types. You will see different kayaks for different conditions and occasions- sea kayaking, flatwater kayaking, whitewater kayaking, recreational kayaking, fishing, etc. A crossover kayak though not specifically designed for any particular purpose; you can explore all the options with it.
This type of kayak produces great maneuverability while paddling in whitewater and at the same time you can expect them to be stable like in flat water too. If you like to explore different water conditions with a single kayak, you must go for a crossover kayak.
Comparison Table: 5 Best Crossover Kayak
The following table shows the specifications of all types at a glance:
Best Crossover Kayaks: Our Top Choices
Now that you have decided to buy a crossover kayak, the next thing is to find a suitable one for your needs. Crossover kayaks have extra compartments for storing things making them suitable for long rides. You will also find kayaks perfect for a shorter ride with less weight capacity. Based on your need and requirement you will find the right kayak.
Here is the list of the most popular crossover kayaks that I consider best:
- Driftsun Rover – Best Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak
- Ocean Kayak Malibu – Best Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
- Oru Foldable Kayak – Best Lake and River Kayaks
- Wilderness Systems Aspire – Best Sit-Inside Recreational Kayak
- Blue Water Toys – Best Inflatable Crossover Paddle Board
Top 5 Crossover Kayaks Reviews
Irrespective of what the purpose is, these will always suit most of the requirements you have. Let’s check their details one by one!
#1 Driftsun Rover – Best Inflatable Tandem White-Water Kayak
This model is one of the best inflatable whitewater kayaks available in the market. It is easy to maneuver and control with the help of front and back rocker profiles. With less tracking, the kayak will also help to pass through any water condition- smooth or rough.
Specifications
- Material: PVC
- Dimension: 102 x 36 x 13 inches (Inflated)
- Weight: 22 Pounds
- Seat Capacity: 1 Person
- Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds
- Style: Classic
- Color: Rover 120
What are the notable advantages of the kayak? I found one great advantage is the quick inflation system. It will require only 9 minutes to inflate fully and make the kayak ready for use. Besides the drop stitch floor can take high pressure and makes the kayak sturdy and stable on the water. With this kayak, you will get more stability than other traditional low-pressure kayaks.
The entire construction is made of dual-layer PVC material which will ensure smooth navigation without any punctures. Though it is a one-person kayak, there will be enough scope to store other things since its weight capacity is 300 pounds. This will help you stay longer or go for a long ride.
How about the usability compared to other kayaks? The EVA seat and footrest are adjustable and ensure a comfortable experience. It also contains numerous handles for carrying the kayak easily. The weight being only 22 pounds, it is a great lightweight crossover kayak you will find.
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Among other accessories, there is a padded seat, an inflatable pump of dual action, a removable fin, an aluminum paddle along with a backpack. There are eight self-bailing plugs to be opened for easy and quick cockpit draining in white water. Closing them on flat water will help you stay up and dry. Near the bow, there is an action camera mount to put your camera and take recordings.
Verdict: This is the go-to-go model if you opt for adventurous whitewater kayaking.
#2 Ocean Kayak Malibu – Best Sit-On-Top Recreational Kayak
Ocean Kayak Malibu is a fantastic recreational crossover kayak model. It is a perfect family package while going with your partner or friend. You can also add your pet or kid since it has the option to adjust three seats. I found this model is suitable for solo kayaking too.
Specifications
- Material: Polyethylene
- Dimension: 144 x 34 x 20 inches
- Weight: 57 Pounds
- Seat Capacity: 2 Persons
- Weight Capacity: 375 Pounds
- Style: Classic
- Color: Sunrise
Are the seats comfortable? Absolutely. You can say the most striking feature for which people buy this kayak is its seats. Those padded seats will give a comfy experience and make sure you can stay for a longer time without any hustle. They have options for custom fit and you can adjust them in four ways. Moreover, the specially molded seats will prevent you from slipping away ensuring the highest possible enjoyment.
How do I rate the other mechanism? The hull of the kayak is made sit-on-top and getting in and out of it is super easy. You can overlap the patented foot wells and rest your feet as a convenience. This will help you to settle in the middle. Nearly three feet wide will give enough space to move comfortably.
Grabbing the kayak is easy due to the presence of molded handles. There is also a skid plate helping in navigating. The weight carrying capacity is 362 pounds and can comfortably carry two persons. You can expect it to last long for its strong building material. Overall, this is a perfect family adventure kayak I must admit.
Verdict: If a casual sit-on-top kayak is the one you are searching for recreational purposes, this kayak is for you.
#3 Oru Foldable Kayak – Best Lake and River Kayaks
If you are looking for a lake or river kayak anyone can use, this is the go-to-go item you need to have a look at. This innovative folding kayak is specially designed for calm water like rivers or lakes and you can ride it irrespective of your kayaking skill.
Specifications
- Material: Custom-Extruded Polypropylene
- Dimension: 42 x 18 x 10 inches (Folded)
- Weight: 20 Pounds
- Seat Capacity: 1 Person
- Weight Capacity: 275 Pounds
- Style: Inlet
- Color: White, Orange, Black
Is it portable as shown in the specifications? This kayak weighs only 20 pounds and is very much lightweight and portable. When you fold it, it becomes extremely compact. It will fit inside the trunk of any car and you can carry it around anywhere easily. Moreover, unfolding it is also easy due to its sleek design and you can prepare it for paddling within five minutes. This easy setup will save much of your time.
How about durability? Oru kayaks have the goodwill of having immense strength. I found this model is one of the best in the market in terms of durability and reliability. A dual layer of polypropylene of nearly about 5 mm makes the kayak resistant to any erosion or puncture.
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The load-taking capacity is 275 pounds. You can comfortably take other accessories with you for a long journey. The size of the kayak allows the rider to sit inside comfortably irrespective of the body measurement. Overall, this is a perfect origami kayak for outdoor adventure in my eyes.
Verdict: Oru kayak is suitable for short kayaking for recreation in the rivers and lakes. Buy this model if your purpose matches the same.
#4 Wilderness Systems Aspire – Best Sit-Inside Recreational Kayak
Another flat-water recreational kayak I can’t ignore from my top choice list. I found the specialty of the kayak lies in stability. This kayak features great maneuverability and you can handle it without facing many problems. The stern bulkhead contains thick foam which adds additional buoyancy and helps in floating. Also, you will comfortably settle inside since it is perfect for paddlers of any size- medium to large.
Specifications
- Material: Polyethylene
- Dimension: 126 x 29 x 15.5 inches
- Weight: 51 Pounds
- Seat Capacity: 1 Person
- Weight Capacity: 400 Pounds
- Style: Flat
- Color: Galaxy
What are the special features of this kayak? The seat is extremely soft and comfortable being phase 3 air pro. I found the airflow is great due to the presence of a smooth cover of 3d foam. It will keep the lower back of the paddler cool allowing him to ride comfortably for a longer time. Moreover, the footrests are large compared to other kayaks. Those padded adjustable footrests help the paddler adjust according to his height.
In shallow water, you can deploy the TruTrak Skeg which is easily retractable. This skeg contains cockpit control. It will help you navigate straightway and stay on the line in heavy wind. Unlike many other kayaks, the dashboard is convenient too. There’s enough space for keeping drinks, food, phones, and other things. The oval-shaped rear storage will keep all the accessories intact and dry. Moreover, you will get every gear close to you at the time of need.
How much weight-carrying capacity does it have? Compared to most single kayaks, the weight-carrying capacity of this model is higher. It can take loads up to 400 pounds leaving enough options for you to take as many things as you wish. It is the perfect item when going for a long fish ride.
Verdict: If you are looking for something to ride on flat or slow water that will give a smooth experience, you should choose this one.
#5 Blue Water Toys – Best Inflatable Crossover Paddle Board
I can’t finish my top choice list without mentioning this model. One of the finest inflatable crossover kayaks that I found very effective. Offering much stability, this is a popular model with a great user experience. You can use this multipurpose kayak as SUP and also quickly convert it to a one-rider kayak.
Specifications
- Material: Polypropylene
- Dimension: 120 x 32 x 6 inches
- Weight: 22 Pounds
- Seat Capacity: 1 Person
- Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds
- Style: Blue/Turquoise
- Color: Blue/Turquoise
What is the usability of the kayak in my eyes? To me, it is one of those few remaining models which will offer great stability and portability at the same time. The weight is only 22 pounds and you can carry it with you anywhere no matter what the distance is. A large EVA pad layer near the bow enables the rider more stability and control while paddling. Besides the detachable third fin also adds easy maneuverability.
How about durability? The building material is of high-quality military-grade polypropylene which makes the kayak strong and more long-lasting than most other kayaks. Moreover, it features double-layer protection for ensuring sturdiness. Besides, the EVA pad layer is resistant to UV rays and secure for the rider.
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Other exclusive features include a soft detachable seat that will provide a comfy experience while riding. The adjustable footrest will also ensure comfort for the rider. Besides, the inflating valve will ensure fast inflation saving much of your time. In my experience, it is a complete package for those who love paddling on an inflatable kayak.
Verdict: Go for this model if an easily inflatable paddle board is what you are looking for.
Things to Notice Before Buying a Crossover Kayak
Knowing exactly what you want is the precondition of buying the most suitable one. I shortlisted 5 from a general perspective. Still, there are chances your requirements may not fulfill the above criteria. That is why you must have detailed knowledge about crossover kayaks before you step into the market to buy one. Some of the key things you should know are given here:
What is the Water Type Where You Will Kayak?
The first thing you must know is the type of water you want to explore. Though crossover kayaks are designed to perform all types of water, choosing a specific one is essential for better performance. Also, you might go for options other than crossover kayaks if your exploring area is mostly a particular type like whitewater or flatwater.
What Type of Building Material Does the Kayak Feature?
Material plays a vital role in performance. Choose a kayak that is built of mostly ethylene material with multiple construction layers. That will allow you to stay on the water for a long time without decaying. You can also explore any water conditions including rocky surfaces.
How Much Weight the Kayak Can Handle?
This is a fundamental rule to check how much weight the kayak can carry. Often you may go for a fishing ride. At that time, you will have to stay on the water longer and require all the necessary gear. Find a kayak that can take the load of you plus other accessories.
Shape and Size of the Kayak
Crossover kayaks are usually of the same shape. Still, there are differences in shapes and sizes based on different models. Kayaks of shorter lengths have more maneuverability but less speed. On the other hand, wider kayaks have more control and they are more stable too. Choose one that matches your criteria.
Is the Kayak Comfortable Enough?
Checking the seat of your kayak is another vital factor. You can stay on the water as much time as you want if the seat is comfortable. Choose one that will give adequate support to your lower back. Also, see the adjustable footrests to place your feet as a convenience.
Usability and Other Features
You need to choose a particular type that comforts you like sit-on-top or sit-in. Check the factors like maneuverability, hull size, waterline, skeg, and storage space carefully. These will give a clear idea of what the performance of the kayak would be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are crossover kayaks worth it?
Certainly, they are worth buying. People who like to explore different water conditions with a single kayak choose crossover kayaks. One crossover kayak will save a lot of their money and give you the option to explore different conditions.
How do you differentiate a crossover kayak from other kayak types?
Unlike other normal kayak types, crossover kayaks have some distinct features that enable them to perform in different water conditions. They contain a few incorporated features like pole holder, planing hull, etc.
Are longer or shorter kayaks better?
It is difficult to compare since both have positive and concerning sides. Shorter kayaks are easy to control and turn but slow. On the other hand longer kayaks are faster with large storage space and are suitable for long rides. They are a bit difficult to control though.
Are there any disadvantages of crossover kayaks?
Crossover kayaks usually do not have any distinct advantage. However, their tracking is not straight due to the short and flat hull size. Paddling them will require some practice to control. They are also not suitable for extreme water conditions since they are not specialized in any type.
Final Words
Finding a perfect crossover kayak is a tiring and exhausting task. Many people can’t enjoy their ride only for not selecting the right one for their requirements. However, if you have come this far, you already know some of the best crossover kayaks and their distinctions. This is the list I made from my long practical knowledge of kayaking. Each one of the five has some unique features and specialties.
However, apart from a few specific performances, they all show more or less similarity in the basics. I would recommend going for either Driftsun Rover or Ocean Kayak Malibu. These two are better in terms of value for money. You can also choose any one from the above according to your purpose. I can assure you that you will have a blast riding any of the above.
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