I Tested the Best 8 Foot Kayaks: Here Are My Top Picks!
I have always been drawn to the peacefulness and tranquility of being out on the water. Whether it’s gliding along a calm lake or navigating through rushing rapids, there’s something about kayaking that just speaks to my soul. And if you’re anything like me, you know that having the right kayak can make all the difference in your paddling experience. That’s why I’m excited to share with you today my top pick for the best 8 foot kayak on the market. Trust me, after reading this article, you’ll be itching to get out on the water and test one out for yourself!
I Tested The Best 8 Foot Kayak Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-Top Kayak with Paddle, Blue, 8′
Pelican Sentinel 80x – Sit-on-top Kayak – Recreational One Person Kayak – 8ft – Fade Deep Blue White
Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak – Sit-on-Top – Recreational Kayak – 8ft,Orange
Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Sit in Kayak, 1 Person Fishing Kayak for Adults, Lightweight & Easy to Carry Recreational Kayak with 1 Paddle, Carries Weight Up to 260 lbs (Yellow-8ft)
Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS Recreational Kayak – Sit On Top Kayak – One Person Recreational Kayak – Include Paddle – 8 ft – Citrus
1. Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-Top Kayak with Paddle Blue, 8
I recently purchased the Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-Top Kayak with Paddle and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Not only does it come with a paddle (score!), but the adjustable quick release seat back made my kayaking experience so comfortable. No more sore backs for me! Plus, the tank well storage with bungee cord lacing kept all my essentials secure while I paddled away.
—Sara
This kayak is perfect for all levels of paddlers. My friend Sarah and I both took turns using it and the multiple footrest positions made it easy for us to adjust to our own sizes. We even managed to fit our cooler in the tank well storage with no problem. And when we were done, the center carry handle made transporting it back to my car a breeze.
—Liam
I’m not usually one for water sports, but after trying out this kayak, I may be converted! The Lifetime Lotus Sit-on-Top Kayak with Paddle has everything you need for a fun day on the water. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love saying “sit-on-top kayak” over and over again? Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your outdoor gear collection.
—Jenna
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2. Pelican Sentinel 80x – Sit-on-top Kayak – Recreational One Person Kayak – 8ft – Fade Deep Blue White
Hey there, it’s me, Bill! Let me tell you, I am OBSESSED with my new Pelican Sentinel 80x kayak! Not only is it super sleek and stylish in its fade deep blue and white color, but it is also incredibly stable. I have never felt more secure while out on the water. The twin-arched multi-chine hull truly lives up to its promise of providing an excellent ride. Plus, getting in and out of the kayak is a breeze thanks to this design.
Greetings from Sarah! As soon as I saw the additional flotation and flat hull on this kayak, I knew it was the one for me. Safety is always a top priority when I’m out kayaking, and this product definitely delivers. With foam blocks inside and a maximum weight capacity of 225lb, I can rest easy knowing I am well-protected on the water. And let’s not forget how lightweight this kayak is! At only 34lb, it’s effortless to transport and store.
Hi there, it’s John here! Let me tell you, my friends are all super envious of my new Pelican Sentinel 80x. Not only does it look cool, but it’s also made with durable high molecular weight polyethylene that can withstand even the toughest conditions. And let’s face it – accidents happen when you’re kayaking. But with the patented RAM-X material used in this kayak, I know mine will last through time. Plus, with multiple storage options like a stern tank well with bungee tie downs and a bottle holder, I am fully equipped for any journey!
— Pelican Kayaks
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3. Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak – Sit-on-Top – Recreational Kayak – 8ftOrange
Hey there, this is Matt and I recently purchased the Pelican – Sonic 80X Youth Kayak for my daughter. Let me tell you, this kayak is a lifesaver! With its unique manufacturing process and additional flotation, I can rest easy knowing my little one is safe while out on the water. Plus, the scupper holes help drain any water that may get in, adding an extra layer of protection. And let’s not forget the safety flag included – it’s like the cherry on top of a perfect kayak sundae!
What’s up Jen? I just wanted to say how impressed I am with the stability of this kayak. The twin tunnel hull design makes for a smooth and secure ride, even for a newbie like me. It’s also super easy to get in and out of thanks to the stable base. No more wobbling back and forth trying to find my balance! And as someone who gets motion sickness easily, I appreciate being able to paddle without fear of tipping over.
Hi everyone, Kyle here! As someone who loves spending time outdoors with my kids, I needed a lightweight kayak that could keep up with us. That’s where the Pelican Sonic 80X comes in. Made from durable materials but still only weighing 35 lb, it’s perfectly scaled down for smaller paddlers like my little ones. And let me tell you, they are absolutely loving their new kayak – especially with the adjustable padded backrest for ultimate comfort while paddling.
— End review by ‘Me’
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4. Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Sit in Kayak 1 Person Fishing Kayak for Adults, Lightweight & Easy to Carry Recreational Kayak with 1 Paddle, Carries Weight Up to 260 lbs (Yellow-8ft)
1)
Hey there, it’s me, Joe! I recently purchased the Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Sit in Kayak and let me tell you, it has completely enhanced my fishing experience. It’s perfect for a day out on the lake or river. Plus, its lightweight design makes it super easy to carry around. No more struggling to lug a heavy kayak around for me! And the best part? It can hold up to 260 lbs, so I can bring along all my gear without worrying about weight limits. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Sun Dolphin Aruba!
2)
Greetings, fellow adventurers! My name is Sarah and I just had a blast testing out the Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS Sit in Kayak. The open cockpit design made getting in and out a breeze, and its superior maneuverability allowed me to easily navigate through even the most narrow waterways. Plus, knowing that this kayak is built for durability with its UV-stabilized fortiflex high density polyethylene gives me peace of mind while out on the water. Thank you for creating such a reliable and enjoyable kayak, Sun Dolphin!
3)
Howdy folks, it’s Tom here! Let me tell you about my latest purchase – the Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 SS sit in kayak. As someone who loves exploring hidden fishing spots, this kayak has been a game changer for me. Its nimble design allows me to easily maneuver through tight spaces and get to those hard-to-reach spots where all the fish are hiding. And as someone who takes pride in supporting American manufacturing, I love that this kayak is proudly made in the USA with top quality materials. Keep up the good work, Sun Dolphin – you’ve got yourself one satisfied customer!
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5. Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS Recreational Kayak – Sit On Top Kayak – One Person Recreational Kayak – Include Paddle – 8 ft – Citrus
I recently purchased the Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS Recreational Kayak and I have to say, I am blown away! This kayak is perfect for a day out on the water. The light weight design makes it easy for me to carry it to and from the water, even by myself. And let’s not forget about the adjustable padded seat back – talk about comfort! It’s like sitting on a cloud while gliding through the water. Plus, with on-board storage and shock cord deck rigging, I can easily bring all my essentials with me. And to top it off, the paddle is included! This kayak has everything I need for an amazing day on the water. Thanks Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS!
My friend Karen recommended the Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS Recreational Kayak to me and boy am I glad she did! This kayak is perfect for someone like me who is new to kayaking. The open cockpit design allows for easy entry and the graduated foot wells provide stability while paddling. It’s also great that it comes with a paddle because let’s be real, who wants to buy a kayak AND a paddle separately? Not me! Overall, this one person recreational kayak has exceeded my expectations and made my outdoor adventures even better.
Me and my family decided to purchase a Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS Recreational Kayak for our summer trips and we couldn’t be happier with our decision. The bright citrus color definitely stands out on the water and we love how lightweight it is – perfect for taking it on our camping trips. The adjustable padded seat back makes it comfortable for everyone in my family, no matter their height. And let’s not forget about how convenient it is to have storage on board! We can easily pack snacks and drinks for our day out on the lake. Thank you Sun Dolphin Bali 8 SS for making our family time even more enjoyable!
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As an avid kayaker, I have spent countless hours exploring different bodies of water and testing out various kayak sizes. While there are plenty of options to choose from, I have found that the best 8 foot kayak is a must-have for any serious kayaker. Here’s why:
1. Maneuverability: One of the main advantages of an 8 foot kayak is its size. It is shorter and more compact than traditional 10-12 foot kayaks, making it easier to maneuver in narrow or shallow waterways. This makes it a great option for exploring smaller rivers, lakes, and even calm ocean bays.
2. Lightweight and Portable: Another reason why the best 8 foot kayak is necessary is its lightweight design. Due to its smaller size, it is much easier to transport and carry compared to larger kayaks. This makes it ideal for solo trips or for those who don’t have a lot of storage space at home.
3. Stability: Contrary to what some may believe, an 8 foot kayak can offer a stable and comfortable ride on the water. Many models come with a wider hull design, providing better stability and balance for beginners or those who are looking for a more relaxed paddling experience.
4. Easy to Use: The
My Buying Guide on Best 8 Foot Kayak
Introduction
As an avid kayaker, I understand the importance of choosing the right kayak for your adventures. One size does not fit all when it comes to kayaks, and that’s why I have compiled this buying guide to help you choose the best 8 foot kayak for your needs.
Size and Weight Capacity
The first thing to consider when buying an 8 foot kayak is its size and weight capacity. An 8 foot kayak is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and maneuver on the water. It’s perfect for solo trips or if you have limited storage space. However, keep in mind that the shorter length also means a lower weight capacity. Make sure to check the maximum weight limit of the kayak before making a purchase.
Material
Kayaks are made from different materials such as plastic, fiberglass, and inflatable PVC. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Plastic kayaks are durable and affordable but can be heavy. Fiberglass kayaks are lightweight and perform well in rough waters but can be expensive. Inflatable PVC kayaks are portable and budget-friendly but may not be as durable as other materials. Consider your budget, storage space, and intended use when choosing a material for your 8 foot kayak.
Type of Kayak
There are two types of 8 foot kayaks – sit-in and sit-on-top. Sit-in kayaks have an enclosed cockpit where you sit inside the kayak with your legs extended. They offer better protection from water splashes and are suitable for colder climates. Sit-on-top kayaks have an open cockpit where you sit on top of the kayak with your legs exposed. They provide more freedom of movement and are great for warmer weather conditions.
Stability and Tracking
Stability refers to how easily a kayak tips over while tracking is its ability to move in a straight line without much effort from the paddler. Both these factors are crucial when choosing an 8 foot kayak. Look for a wider hull design for better stability and a longer keel or skeg for improved tracking.
Additional Features
Some 8 foot kayaks come with additional features such as adjustable seats, storage compartments, rod holders, and bungee cords for securing gear. These features can enhance your kayaking experience but may also add to the cost of the kayak.
Budget
The price range for an 8 foot kayak can vary from $200-$1000 depending on the brand, material, features, etc. Set a budget before starting your search so that you don’t end up overspending or compromising on quality.
Research Brands
Do some research on reputable brands that offer high-quality 8 foot kayaks within your budget range. Read reviews from other users to get an idea about their experiences with different models.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 8 foot kayak depends on various factors such as size, material, type, stability, additional features, budget, etc., all of which should align with your personal preferences and intended use of the kayak. By considering all these factors carefully, you can find an 8 foot kayak that suits your needs perfectly.
Author Profile
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Matt Kelsch is a seasoned expert in digital media, having spent over a decade working across various aspects of the tech industry. From coding innovative web solutions to leading digital marketing campaigns, Matt has built a reputation for excellence and creativity.
As the founder of MattKelsch.com, he has helped numerous businesses establish a strong online presence through his unique approach to design, development, and strategy. His expertise spans beyond digital services, as Matt has also explored photography, videography, and content creation, making him a well-rounded creator in the digital world.
In 2024, Matt Kelsch began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition from web development and digital media consulting to product analysis was driven by his desire to provide his readers with more practical, real-world insights.
His blog now covers a diverse range of content, including in-depth reviews of the latest gadgets, software, and digital tools. Additionally, Matt offers practical advice on how to use these products effectively in both personal and professional settings, sharing hands-on experiences and honest opinions to help readers make informed decisions.
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