Looking back at the 2017 kayak market, Walmart was a treasure trove for budget-conscious paddlers seeking quality without the hefty price tag. That year offered an impressive array of affordable, user-friendly kayaks perfect for beginners, anglers, and families eager to hit the water. From trusted brands like Perception and Lifetime, these models provided exceptional value, blending durability, comfort, and smart features.
This retrospective roundup revisits the ten best affordable kayaks you could find at Walmart in 2017. Whether you were looking for a stable fishing platform, a compact solo cruiser, or an inflatable for easy storage, this list had an option to start your next adventure. Let’s take a nostalgic look at the models that made paddling accessible to everyone.
The Best Affordable Kayaks of 2017
- Perception Flash 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak
- Perception Hangtime 11 Kayak
- Perception Outlaw 11.5 Fishing Kayak
- Perception Tribe 11.5 Sit on Top Kayak
- Intex 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set
- Lifetime Muskie Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak
- Advanced Elements 2 Person Kayak
- Perception Kayaks Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top
- Sea Eagle 380x Inflatable Kayak
- Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak
Perception Flash 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak
The Perception Flash 9.5 delivered an exceptional blend of stability and quick, nimble handling for its time. Designed and made in the USA, it was built with a focus on durability and quality craftsmanship that appealed to paddlers looking for a reliable sit-inside model.
Weighing just 41 lbs, this kayak was notably easy to carry and maneuver, making it a great choice for solo adventurers. Its compact 9’6″ size was manageable without compromising on capacity, as it could handle up to 325 lbs. For anglers, the built-in rod holders and a multi-function dash were standout features, while the rear storage compartment provided practical space for gear.
Perception Hangtime 11 Kayak
The Perception Hangtime 11 was designed with comfort and socializing in mind. Its ergonomic seating, padded surfaces, and adjustable features were built to allow for longer periods on the water without discomfort. The standout feature was the comfortable reclining seat with a padded headrest, perfect for relaxing.
This kayak was built for fun, with a design focused on maneuverability and stability for a confident paddle. The ample deck space was ideal for relaxation, and well-located drink holders added to the convenience. A unique padded lounge seat at the stern offered a spot for a passenger to join in on the fun, making it more than just a standard recreational kayak.
Perception Outlaw 11.5 Fishing Kayak
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 was a fishing-optimized sit-on-top kayak known for its superior stability. With an impressive weight capacity of 425 lbs, it could handle a significant amount of gear. It featured a large rear tankwell and a front storage area, providing ample room for all your fishing equipment and personal items.
Comfort during long fishing trips was a priority, addressed by the unique fold-away frame seat. Made in the USA, this 11’6″ kayak was designed for robust performance on the water. For serious anglers, the four integrated rod holders made multi-rod fishing efficient, and integrated tackle trays kept bait and gear organized and within easy reach.
Perception Tribe 11.5 Sit on Top Kayak
As Perception’s bestselling sit-on-top kayak, the Tribe 11.5 was a top choice for beginner to intermediate paddlers in 2017. Made in the USA, its reputation was built on a foundation of reliability and user-friendliness. The adjustable framed seatback and cushy padded seat pan offered superior comfort for various paddling adventures.
The kayak was designed to cater to paddlers of all sizes, featuring integrated footrests and molded knee/thigh areas for a secure and comfortable fit. This attention to ergonomics made every journey more enjoyable. For storage, it offered front and rear tank wells secured with bungee tie-downs, a center storage hatch for essentials, and a built-in drink holder for added convenience on the water.
Intex 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set
The Intex Explorer K2 was the go-to solution for paddlers needing easy transport and storage. This lightweight and compact kayak was simple to assemble, and with the Boston valve, it inflated and deflated in minutes. The paddles came apart and everything could be stored in the included carrying bag, making it perfect for spontaneous trips.
This tandem kayak was great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend. Its bright yellow color and sporty graphics ensured high visibility on the water. Built with rugged vinyl construction, it featured an inflatable I-beam floor for stiffness and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability. The removable skeg was a key feature that provided better directional movement while paddling.
Lifetime Muskie Angler Sit-On-Top Kayak
The Lifetime Muskie Angler was constructed from UV-protected high-density polyethylene, promising long-term durability against the elements. Its stable flat bottom design gave anglers the confidence to stand and cast, and multiple footrest positions accommodated different size riders for a customized fit.
Comfort was addressed with an adjustable padded seat back and seat pad, which was a valued feature for long days fishing. It came equipped with three fishing rod holders—two flush-mounted and one top-mounted—to keep gear secure. The package included a paddle, and the kayak offered two 6″ storage compartments in the rear and center for organizing tackle and personal items.
Advanced Elements 2 Person Kayak
The AdvancedFrame Convertible kayak provided enhanced stability with its wide beam design and multi-layer material. This construction offered a steady ride even in choppy waters, giving paddlers confidence during their tandem adventures. Its robust build, featuring a durable outer cover and internal aluminum ribs, was designed to protect against punctures and abrasion.
With a generous maximum weight capacity of 550 lbs, this inflatable kayak could comfortably accommodate two paddlers and their gear without a drop in performance. The internal aluminum frame helped it track better in the water than many other inflatables. This model successfully bridged the gap between the portability of an inflatable and the performance of a hard-shell kayak.
Perception Kayaks Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top
The Perception Tribe 9.5 was a versatile sit-on-top kayak designed for all-around fun. With a robust weight capacity of 300 lbs, it was an ideal choice for a wide range of paddlers. Its sit-on-top design offered superior stability, making it a dependable choice for everything from tranquil lake cruising to navigating mild ocean waves.
Premium comfort was a key selling point, thanks to the high-back frame seatback. This feature provided increased support and cushioning during long paddles. The adjustable recline positions allowed for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience, letting you shift positions and stay comfortable from start to finish.
Sea Eagle 380x Inflatable Kayak
The Sea Eagle 380x was a high-performance inflatable known for its toughness. It was built to handle class four whitewater while remaining stable, dry, and comfortable on flat-water. The high-pressure drop-stitch floor provided great rigidity, resulting in super responsive paddling performance that rivaled some hard-shell kayaks.
This model was super-fast self-bailing, featuring 16 floor drains that could be left open for wet whitewater and ocean kayaking or closed for high and dry flat-water paddling. This versatility made it a unique offering. For improved tracking on open water, it included a removable slide skeg, allowing paddlers to fine-tune the kayak’s handling for different conditions.
Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak
The Intex Challenger K1 was a hugely popular solo inflatable kayak, prized for its affordability and portability. It was an excellent entry-point for beginners wanting to try kayaking without a major investment. Its compact size and lightweight design made it easy to transport in a car trunk and store in small spaces.
Constructed from rugged vinyl, it featured an inflatable I-beam floor for added stiffness and stability in the water. The bright color options offered good visibility for safety. As a simple, no-fuss option, it came with an aluminum oar and a high-output pump, providing everything needed for a casual paddle on calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Affordable Kayak
Looking back at the 10 best affordable kayaks at Walmart for 2017, the choices were solid for getting on the water without a huge investment. Even though we’re talking about a retrospective, the principles for picking a good, budget-friendly kayak haven’t changed much. I always tell my friends that the goal is to find a boat that matches how you plan to use it. Are you paddling on a calm lake, a slow-moving river, or maybe trying a bit of fishing? Your answer dictates the type of kayak you need.
First, consider the kayak’s construction. Back in 2017, most of the affordable options at Walmart were made from durable polyethylene plastic. This material is tough and can handle bumps against rocks and docks, which is perfect for beginners. I remember the Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS was a prime example of this—a real workhorse. You also saw some rotomolded designs, which create a single, strong piece of plastic without weak seams. While they might be a bit heavier, their durability is a big plus.
Next, think about the hull design. A sit-on-top kayak, like the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 that was so popular, is fantastic for warm weather, easy to get in and out of, and feels less confining. Sit-inside models, like the Perception Joyride 10, offer a lower center of gravity and can keep you drier and warmer in cooler conditions or on choppier water. For stability, a wider, flatter hull is your best friend, especially for fishing or photography. If you plan on covering longer distances, a longer, narrower hull will track straighter and move faster.
Finally, don’t forget the little things that make a big difference. Comfortable seating is non-negotiable for a good day on the water. Many of the 2017 favorites started including better, adjustable padded seats. Also, look at the storage options. Do you need a rear tankwell for a cooler? Do you want built-in rod holders? How about accessory tracks for mounting a fish finder or camera mount? Even on a budget, many of the top kayaks from that year offered these features. Weight capacity is another critical spec; always make sure the kayak can hold you and your gear with a safe margin. By focusing on these key areas—construction, hull type, and features—you can find a kayak that gives you years of fun, just like those top picks from 2017 did for so many people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these 2017 Walmart kayaks still a good buy if I find one used?
Absolutely. If you can find one of these models in good condition from a trusted seller, it can be a fantastic deal. Kayaks like the Lifetime Tamarack or Sun Dolphin Aruba are built to last. When checking a used kayak, look for any significant cracks, especially in the hull, and check for warping or damage to the scupper holes. Make sure the seat and any adjustable parts are still functional. A well-cared-for kayak from this list can serve you just as well today.
What is the main difference between a sit-on-top and a sit-inside kayak?
This is one of the biggest decisions. A sit-on-top kayak is exactly what it sounds like—you sit in a molded seat on top of the boat. They are very stable, easy to get back onto if you fall off (a process called “re-entry”), and great for warm weather. A sit-inside kayak has an enclosed cockpit where your legs and lower body are inside the hull. This design offers more protection from the elements, can feel more secure in choppy water, and often tracks a bit better. It really comes down to personal preference and your primary paddling environment.
How important is the weight capacity of a kayak?
It’s extremely important for both safety and performance. The weight capacity isn’t just about how much you weigh; it includes you, your gear, your cooler, and any other accessories. You always want to stay well under the maximum capacity. If you overload a kayak, it will sit lower in the water, become harder to paddle, and feel less stable. It can also make the kayak more susceptible to taking on water. Always check the spec sheet and choose a kayak with a capacity that gives you a comfortable buffer.
I’m a complete beginner. Which type of kayak from that 2017 list would you recommend?
For a total beginner, I would point you towards a stable, recreational sit-on-top kayak. Models like the Lifetime Tamarack 100 or the Sun Dolphin Journey 10 SS were perfect examples. They are wide, which makes them very stable and less tippy, and the sit-on-top design is less intimidating and easier to handle. They are also generally more affordable and come with all the basic features you need to get started without any fuss.
Can I actually go fishing from an affordable kayak from Walmart?
You sure can! In fact, one of the most popular categories in that 2017 retrospective was fishing kayaks. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 was a standout because it came pre-equipped with rod holders and accessory mounts. Many of these budget-friendly fishing kayaks are stable enough to stand up in (carefully!) and have enough storage for a tackle box and a small cooler. They are a brilliant way to get into the sport of kayak fishing without a massive upfront cost.