Remember the golden era of affordable kayaking at Walmart? Back in 2017, the big-box retailer became a go-to destination for budget-friendly boats that opened up waterways for countless beginners and casual paddlers. We’re taking a nostalgic trip to see how those classic models have evolved. Many of those same trusted brands and designs are still available today, often with significant upgrades to comfort, storage, and features.
This revisited roundup looks at nine excellent kayaks that carry on the legacy of providing great value. Whether you’re looking for a stable fishing platform, a comfortable cruiser for lazy rivers, or a packable inflatable for spontaneous trips, this list has a wallet-friendly option to get you on the water without compromise. The focus remains on quality and performance at an accessible price point.
Our Recommended Affordable Kayaks
- Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak
- 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
- Sevylor QuickPak K1 Inflatable Kayak
- Pelican Sentinel 100X Fishing Kayak
- Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak
- Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
Perception Tribe 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak
The Perception Tribe 9.5 is a versatile sit-on-top kayak built for all-around fun on the water. Its design provides superior stability and comfort, making it a reliable choice for everything from calm lake paddling to handling gentle ocean waves. With a robust weight capacity of 300 pounds, it can accommodate paddlers of various sizes with confidence.
Comfort is a major focus with the high-back frame seatback, which offers increased support and cushioning. The seat also features adjustable recline positions, allowing you to find the perfect angle for a relaxing and enjoyable paddling experience. For your gear, the kayak includes a large rear storage area with secure tie-downs.
Perception Flash 9.5 Sit Inside Kayak
For those who prefer a sit-inside model, the Perception Flash 9.5 delivers a great mix of stability and nimble handling. Weighing only 41 pounds, it is remarkably easy to transport and maneuver from car to water. Despite its lightweight build, it maintains a solid weight capacity of 325 pounds.
This kayak is designed with versatility in mind, making it an excellent choice for fishing and general recreation. It comes with built-in rod holders, ready for your next angling trip. The rear storage compartment offers ample space for stowing gear, snacks, and other essentials for a day on the water.
Perception Hangtime 11 Kayak
The Perception Hangtime 11 is built for relaxation and socializing on the water. Its design prioritizes comfort with an ergonomic seating system that includes padded surfaces and adjustable features. This allows for longer periods on the water without discomfort, whether you’re actively paddling or simply lounging.
A unique feature of this kayak is the padded lounge seat at the stern, creating a space for a passenger to relax or for you to stretch out. With ample deck space and well-located drink holders, it’s perfect for a leisurely day. The comfortable reclining seat with a padded headrest adds to the overall laid-back experience.
Perception Outlaw 11.5 Fishing Kayak
Serious anglers looking for a stable platform will appreciate the Perception Outlaw 11.5. This sit-on-top kayak is optimized for fishing, offering superior stability and an impressive 425-pound weight capacity. It provides ample room for all your fishing gear and personal items.
Storage is a key strength, with a large rear tank well and a front storage area to keep your equipment organized and secure. The unique fold-away frame seat offers maximum comfort during long hours waiting for a bite. With four integrated rod holders, it supports multi-rod fishing setups efficiently.
Perception Tribe 11.5 Sit on Top Kayak
The larger sibling in the Tribe series, this 11.5-foot kayak is a bestseller for a reason. It’s a top choice for beginner and intermediate paddlers, offering a comfortable and stable ride. The adjustable framed seatback and cushioned seat pan provide superior comfort for extended adventures.
It accommodates paddlers of all sizes with integrated footrests and molded knee and thigh areas for a secure and comfortable fit. You will have plenty of space for your belongings with front and rear tank wells secured by bungee tie-downs, a center storage hatch for essentials, and a built-in drink holder for convenience.
Sevylor QuickPak K1 Inflatable Kayak
The Sevylor QuickPak K1 solves the problem of storage and transport with its innovative backpack design. This one-person inflatable kayak can be set up in about five minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous trips or for those with limited storage space. The entire system packs down into a carry bag that transforms into the seat.
Constructed from rugged 21-gauge PVC, this kayak is built to handle use on lakes and other calm waters. For added peace of mind, it comes with a 90-day limited warranty. The package includes a hand pump and a paddle, so you have everything you need to get started.
Pelican Sentinel 100X Fishing Kayak
The Pelican Sentinel 100X is a feature-packed sit-on-top kayak designed for anglers. Its standout feature is the Ergolounge seating system, which includes extra-thick cushioning and a high, wide padded backrest for exceptional comfort during long fishing sessions. This focus on comfort helps you stay on the water longer.
It comes equipped with a total of four rod holders—two flush-mount and two vertical—to handle all your fishing needs. The ExoPak removable storage compartment is a convenient feature, allowing you to pack your gear at home and simply drop it into the kayak when you’re ready to launch.
Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak
The Intex Challenger K1 is a classic and highly accessible inflatable kayak, perfect for the solo adventurer. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport in a car trunk or even carry to remote launch spots. Despite its portable nature, it is built to be durable and stable on calm waters.
This kayak is an excellent entry-level option for those wanting to try kayaking without a major investment. It is straightforward to inflate and deflate, simplifying the process of getting on the water. The Challenger K1 has remained a popular choice for its reliability and straightforward design for casual paddling.
Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
For those who prefer a partner on the water, the Intex Explorer K2 is a two-person inflatable kayak that offers great versatility. It provides a stable and spacious platform, making it ideal for couples or friends to enjoy a day out on lakes and slow-moving rivers together.
The Explorer K2 features adjustable seats with backrests for comfort for both occupants. It includes grab lines and cargo nets to secure your gear during your trip. Like the Challenger, it is designed for easy setup and takedown, emphasizing convenience for spontaneous outings.
What to Look For in the 9 Best Affordable Kayaks at Walmart from 2017 Revisited
Thinking about getting into kayaking without draining your bank account? I totally get it. Back in 2017, Walmart had a solid lineup of budget-friendly kayaks that got a lot of people out on the water. I thought it would be fun to revisit that list and see what still holds up, but first, let’s talk about what you should actually look for when you’re shopping. The goal is to find a kayak that fits you, your budget, and your paddling plans.
First up, consider the kayak type. Are you planning on calm lake paddling or do you want to try some river running? For beginners and flat water, a recreational kayak is your best bet. These are typically wider, which makes them more stable, and they often have a large cockpit that’s easy to get in and out of. If you’re looking at the 9 best affordable kayaks at Walmart from 2017 revisited, you’ll notice most are this style. Then you have sit-on-top kayaks, which are fantastic for warm weather, fishing, or if you just don’t like the feeling of being enclosed. They are self-bailing and virtually unsinkable, which is a huge plus for safety and peace of mind.
Next, look at the material and construction. At this price point, you’re almost always looking at roto-molded polyethylene. It’s durable, impact-resistant, and perfect for bouncing off a few rocks as you learn. The trade-off is weight. A 10-foot kayak can easily weigh 50 pounds or more. If you’re car-topping by yourself, this is a big deal. Check the weight and think about how you’ll transport it. Many affordable models come with molded-in handles, but are they in places that make it easy to carry?
Finally, don’t forget the little things that make a big difference. Look for features like adjustable footrests – crucial for comfort and efficient paddling. Storage is another key point. Does it have a sealed hatch or at least bungee cords on the deck to stash a dry bag? Comfortable seating can make or break a long day on the water; a cheap kayak with a bad seat is a miserable experience. Many of the seats in this category are basic, but some aftermarket upgrades can work wonders. By focusing on these key areas—type, material, and features—you can sift through the options and find a kayak that will provide years of fun without a huge initial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these older 2017 kayak models still safe to buy used?
Absolutely, as long as you do a thorough inspection. Polyethylene kayaks are built to last. The main things I look for are hull deformities (like a kayak that’s been stored improperly and developed a permanent curve), significant cracks, or brittle plastic from excessive sun exposure. Check the scupper plugs on sit-on-tops and make sure the seat and all the rigging are in decent shape. A well-cared-for kayak from 2017 can be a fantastic bargain.
What is the main difference between a sit-in and a sit-on-top kayak?
This is the biggest first decision you’ll make. A sit-in kayak has a cockpit where you sit inside the hull. It generally offers better protection from the wind and water, can feel more responsive to paddle, and is often lighter. A sit-on-top is exactly what it sounds like; you sit on an open deck. They are incredibly stable, easy to get on and off, and self-draining, making them ideal for beginners, warm climates, and fishing. For a relaxed day on a calm lake, you can’t go wrong with either, but your personal comfort preference is key.
How important is the weight capacity of a kayak?
It’s very important for both safety and performance. You need to account for your body weight plus all your gear—think cooler, paddle, life jacket, and any other accessories. If you max out or exceed the capacity, the kayak will sit lower in the water, making it slower, harder to maneuver, and more likely to take on water. I always recommend choosing a kayak with a capacity that’s at least 50 pounds more than what you and your gear weigh. This gives you a comfortable safety margin.
Can I really go kayaking by myself?
You sure can! Kayaking is a fantastic solo activity. It’s peaceful and a great way to get some exercise on your own schedule. The most important rule is to always wear your personal flotation device (PFD). It’s also a good idea to tell someone your float plan—where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Starting on a small, calm body of water is the best way to build your confidence.
What essential gear do I need besides the kayak?
At a minimum, you need three things: a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), a paddle, and a way to transport the kayak. Don’t cheap out on the PFD; get one that is comfortable and Coast Guard approved. A paddle that is the right length for you and your kayak’s width will save your shoulders. For transport, you’ll need a roof rack system or, at the very least, foam blocks and sturdy straps. A bilge pump and a dry bag for your phone and keys are also smart first purchases.
Is it worth revisiting the list of the 9 best affordable kayaks at Walmart from 2017?
I think it is, mainly because the core designs of these popular, entry-level kayaks haven’t changed dramatically. Brands like Sun Dolphin, Lifetime, and Perception still produce very similar models today. By looking back at what was praised then, you can identify the proven, timeless features that make a good beginner kayak. This knowledge helps you spot a good value, whether you’re looking at a used model from that era or a new one with the same fundamental design.