Kayaking For Everyone: Best Kayaks for Big Guys (And Gals!) in 2023

If you’re a big guy (or gal) who loves to kayak, you know that finding the right kayak can be a challenge because most kayaks on the market aren’t designed to accommodate larger frames, which can make for an uncomfortable and even dangerous experience on the water. 

But fear not, there are some kayaks specifically designed to cater to the needs of plus-sized individuals, with features like wider cockpits, higher weight capacities, and more stable designs. 

In this guide, we will take a closer look at some of the best kayaks for big guys and gals, as well as provide tips on how to choose the right kayak for your size, so you can hit the water with confidence.

List of the Best Kayaks for Big Guys and Gals

Product Name	Weigh Capacity	Selling Point
Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak	550 lbs	Best Overall
Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive	475 lbs	Runner Up
Sevylor Quikpak K1 One-Person Kayak	400 lbs	Best on A Budget
BKC TK122U 2 or 3 Person Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak	770 lbs	Best Tandem
Driftsun Almanor 146 Inflatable Kayak	600 lbs	Best Inflatable

The 5 Best Kayaks for Big Guys and Gals

1. Best Overall – Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak

The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 Kayak stands out as one of the best kayaks for plus-sized individuals for various reasons.

First and foremost, the kayak boasts a generous weight capacity of 550 pounds, so it can easily accommodate larger individuals, as well as any additional gear or equipment needed. 

It also features a spacious cockpit that allows for easy entry and exit and an AirPro MAX seat designed with a higher backrest to provide extra support. This seat can also be adjusted to fit any body type, ensuring a comfortable fit for hours on end.

Another standout feature of this kayak is its stability, as it utilizes Wilderness Systems’ patented Air-Lite™ technology, which provides a sturdy platform that is less likely to tip over. This is particularly important for larger individuals who may feel less stable in a traditional kayak.

The kayak also has a range of other features that make it an excellent choice for fishing, such as ample storage space, including a large bow hatch and a stern tank well, as well as multiple gear tracks and mounting points for accessories.

Pros VS Cons

Pros:

• Generous weight capacity of 550 pounds
• Spacious cockpit for easy entry and exit
• Adjustable seat with a higher backrest for extra support and comfort Air-Lite™ technology provides a stable platform
• Multiple storage options
• Gear tracks and mounting points for accessories

Cons:

• The kayak is relatively heavy at 95 pounds, which may make it difficult to transport
• The price point is on the higher end, which may not be accessible for all budgets

Bottom Line

The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak is an overall top-notch option for plus-sized individuals looking for a kayak with a generous weight capacity that’s also comfortable and stable.

2. Runner Up – Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive

The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Sit-on-Top Kayak is another fantastic choice for big guys, particularly those who are kayaking to lose weight.

The main standout feature of this kayak is its pedal drive system that allows you to move the kayak with your feet rather than relying solely on your arms. 

This is a great feature for larger individuals who may struggle with traditional paddle kayaks. It can also provide a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints, making it an excellent way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health.

The Pescador Pilot 12 boasts a weight capacity of 475 pounds to accommodate your weight and the weight of your gear. It also has a wide hull which enhances stability and provides enough room to move in and out of the kayak easily.

If you’re not interested in using the kayak to work out, you can use it for fishing as it comes with multiple storage options for fishing gear, including a front hatch and rear tank well, as well as several rod holders and accessory mounting points for fish finders and other fishing equipment.

Moreover, to ensure your comfort, the kayak comes with a lawn-style seat made of breathable mesh material. The seat also has a high backrest and can be adjusted to provide extra support 

Pros VS Cons

Pros:

• Wide design to enhance stability
• Comes with a pedal drive system 
• Weight capacity of 475 pounds
• Adjustable mesh seat with a higher backrest for extra support and comfort 
• Ample storage space
• Several rod holders and accessory mounting points

Cons:

• The price point is on the higher end, which may not be accessible for all budgets
• The pedal drive system can be more difficult to control than a traditional paddle

Bottom Line

The Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Sit-on-Top Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive is an excellent investment for plus-sized individuals who are looking for a kayak that can help them lose weight while also providing an enjoyable fishing experience. 

3. Best on A Budget – Sevylor Quikpak K1 One-Person Kayak

Our budget pick is this Sevylor Quikpak K1Inflatable Kayak, which offers similar benefits to other plus-size friendly kayaks but at a more affordable price.

One of those benefits is the kayak’s high weight capacity, as it can accommodate up to 400 pounds. It also comes with a paddle; however, it doesn’t have much storage space for any other gear or supplies you may want to pack.

Additionally, since it’s an inflatable kayak, the Quikpak K1 is excellent when it comes to portability as it is lightweight, can be easily inflated and deflated using the included pump, and comes with a backpack carrying case that makes it easy to transport.

Despite its lightweight and portable design, it is still sturdy and durable as it’s made from puncture-resistant material and features multiple air chambers for added safety. The inflatable seat is comfortable and can be adjusted to fit any body type.

Pros VS Cons

Pros:

• Weight capacity of 400 pounds 
• Affordable price point makes it accessible for those on a budget
• Lightweight to facilitate transport
• Comes with a paddle, backpack carrying case, and pump
• Easy to inflate and deflate
• Made of puncture-resistant durable materials 
• Multiple air chambers provide added safety
• Adjustable inflatable seat provides comfortable support for different body types

Cons:

• No storage space
• The inflatable design may not be as stable as a hard-shell kayak

Bottom Line

The Sevylor Quikpak K1Inflatable Kayak combines portability, durability, and comfort, making it a good choice for big guys and gals who want to get out on the water without breaking the bank.

4. Best Tandem – BKC TK122U Tandem 2 Kayak

Most tandem kayaks on the market can carry 2, maybe even 3 average-sized of average; however, this BKC TK122U Tandem kayak can carry 2 plus-sized individuals and their gear with an unbeatable weight capacity of 770 pounds.

Like other tandem kayaks, it’s designed with stability in mind as it’s 12 feet 6 inches long and 34 inches wide, providing plenty of room for both paddlers to move around and stay balanced. The sit-on-top design also makes it easy to get in and out of, even for individuals who may have mobility challenges.

In addition to its spacious and stable design, the TK122U is highly comfortable as it features two ergonomic seats with backrests to provide sufficient support while paddling.

It also comes with two adjustable paddles and has ample storage options for fishing gear and other items, as it features two waterproof storage hatches, as well as a bungee cord hold, two rod holders, and several mounting points for any additional accessories.

Pros VS Cons

Pros:

• Highest weight capacity of 770 pounds
• Suitable for two plus-sized individuals
• Spacious and stable design
• Ergonomic seats with backrest for additional comfort and support
• Multiple storage options
• Two rod holders and several accessory mounts
• Comes with two adjustable paddles

Cons:

• Large size and weight may make it difficult to transport and store

Bottom Line

If you are on the heavier side and want to go on a kayaking trip with a buddy, the BKC TK122U Tandem Kayak is your best option. It has the highest weight capacity of all kayaks on this list to fit two plus-sized individuals while maintaining comfort and stability. 

5. Best Inflatable – Driftsun Almanor 146 Inflatable Kayak

This Driftsun Almanor 146 Inflatable Kayak is plus-size friendly, as it’s designed to carry large weights while maintaining stability and comfort.

Despite being light in weight, the kayak can hold up to 600 pounds and has a spacious cockpit that can fit two larger individuals and any gear they want to pack. Unlike most inflatable kayaks, it also has several storage options, including a front storage area and bungee cords for securing gear.

It features three separate air chambers, providing extra buoyancy on the water. It also has a flat-bottomed design to enhance stability and comes with a removal skeg to enhance maneuverability.

In addition to its stability, the Almanor 146 has many features that provide added comfort and convenience, as it features 2 adjustable seats with EVA padded backrests and an extra small seat for a child or a pet. It also comes with two paddles, a travel bag, and a dual-action pump.

Pros VS Cons

Pros:

• High weight capacity of 600 pounds
• Suitable for two plus-sized individuals
• Spacious cockpit provides plenty of room to move around and stay comfortable
• Three separate air chambers for added buoyancy 
• Flat-bottomed design provides excellent stability 
• Comes with a removal skeg to enhance maneuverability
• EVA- padded adjustable seats for extra comfort and support
• Several storage options
• Lightweight and easy to transport and store when deflated
• Comes with two paddles, a travel bag, and a dual-action pump.

Cons:

• Relatively expensive compared to other inflatable kayaks
• May not be as durable as a hard-shell kayak in rough conditions

Bottom Line

The Driftsun Almanor 146 Inflatable Kayak is an ideal choice for larger individuals as it’s designed with stability and comfort in mind. It may be more expensive compared to other inflatable kayaks, but the benefits it offers are more than worth it.

How to Choose the Right Kayak for Your Size?

Choosing the right kayak as a plus-sized individual can make all the difference in your kayaking experience, as it will affect your comfort as well as safety on the water.

So, here are some factors you need to consider to choose the right kayak for your size:

1. Weight capacity: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kayak is its weight capacity. You need to look for a kayak with weight capacities that exceed your weight, as well as the weight of any gear you plan to bring with you. 
   • Keep in mind that it’s better to have a kayak with a higher weight capacity than you need, as this will provide more stability on the water.
2. Cockpit size: The cockpit is the area where you sit in the kayak. Plus-sized individuals should look for a kayak with larger cockpits to accommodate wider hips and larger legs. 
3. Seat comfort: Kayaking can be uncomfortable, especially for longer trips. So, make sure to look for kayaks with comfortable, adjustable seats that provide good back support.
   • Some kayaks even have seats with extra padding, which can be helpful for plus-sized individuals.
4. Stability: Stability is important for all kayakers, but especially for plus-sized individuals. It’s mainly affected by the width of the kayak, so look for a kayak with a wider base or a flatter bottom, as these tend to be more stable on the water.
5. Material: Kayaks can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, fiberglass, and composite materials, which can affect other characteristics such as durability, weight, and price.
   • For instance, plastic kayaks tend to be less expensive, but they can also be heavier and less durable than other materials.
   • Fiberglass and composite kayaks, on the other hand, tend to be lighter and more durable, but they are also more expensive.
6. Price: Kayaks can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. So, you need to consider your budget when selecting a kayak while keeping in mind that investing in a high-quality kayak can make all the difference in your kayaking experience.

What Happens If You Exceed the Kayaks Weight Capacity?

The weight capacity of a kayak is determined by the manufacturer and is based on the maximum amount of weight the kayak can safely carry while maintaining its buoyancy and stability on the water.

If you exceed the weight capacity, the kayak may sit too low in the water, which can cause instability and make it harder to maneuver. Additionally, the kayak’s buoyancy may be compromised, making it more difficult to paddle and control. In extreme cases, the kayak may capsize, putting the kayaker at risk of injury or drowning.

Exceeding the weight capacity can also cause damage to the kayak, such as stress on the hull, which can compromise the kayak’s integrity and lead to leaks or cracks.

So, it’s very important that you choose a kayak with a weight capacity that exceeds your weight and any gear you plan to bring with you to ensure that the kayak will be stable, safe, and performs well on the water. 

Other Tips for Kayaking As A Plus-Sized Person

Here are some tips to help you enjoy kayaking as a plus-sized person:

1. Always wear a Personal Floatation Device (PDF), and make sure to choose a PFD that fits you properly.
2. Wear comfortable, lightweight, and quick-drying clothing that allows for a full range of motion to prevent discomfort and chafing.
3. Adjust the kayak’s footrests and backrest to ensure that you feel comfortable and supported. You may also need to add extra padding to the seat to provide more cushioning and support.
4. Getting in and out of a kayak can be challenging for plus-sized individuals, especially in deep water, so make sure to practice different ways to get in and out of the kayak in shallow water before heading out to deeper areas. 
5. Start slow with calm waters and short paddles to build up your stamina and confidence. This will help you get used to the motion of kayaking and improve your skills.
6. If you are new to kayaking, consider taking lessons from a qualified instructor. They can teach you proper techniques and help you feel more comfortable and confident on the water.
7. If you feel tired or uncomfortable, take a break or head back to shore. Remember, kayaking is supposed to be enjoyable and fun, not a grueling workout.

Overall, kayaking is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, regardless of your size. By choosing the right kayak for your size and following these tips, you can feel more comfortable and confident while kayaking and enjoy all that this fun activity has to offer.

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