Table of Contents
Best Kayaks For Fat People: TOP Big Man Kayaks for 2023
- Best Overall for Fat Person: Wilderness Systems ATAK 120
- Best Budget-Friendly: Sea Eagle SE370
- Best Value: Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak
- Most Durable: Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140
- Editor’s Choice: Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
In the past, kayaking was synonymous with whitewater. While whitewater kayaking remains popular in some areas, it has evolved to include more than just running rapids and dodging boulders.
Kayaking can be a relaxing way to explore the country’s waterways and enjoy the sounds and sights of the outdoors. Kayaking has become a popular mode of transport to camp, fish, and hunt. Kayak fishing allows anyone to fish and explore without spending thousands of dollars.
No matter what you do with your kayak, the common thread is that they are a lot of fun! Anyone can learn to kayak, regardless of their age or socio-economic background. The best kayak can make the experience easier and more enjoyable.
Even though some people are hesitant about kayaking, it can be enjoyed in all shapes and sizes. Kayaking can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of height or weight. It is possible to be concerned about your higher center-of-gravity, increased legroom, seating requirements, and boat weight limits.
First, you should know that there’re many kayaks available on the market to accommodate larger persons. You need to look around to find the best boat options. Let’s begin with multi-purpose recreational kayaks, accommodating larger people for many recreational on-the-water pursuits.
See Also:
- Fishing Kayak 400 lb Capacity
- 4 Person Kayaks For Sale
- Ascend 12t Kayak Review
- Pelican Blitz 100x EXO Kayak Review
- Sit On Top vs Sit In Kayak
10 Best Kayaks For Fat People 2023 [Big Man Kayaks Reviewed]:
1. Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak
Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. The Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. 120 kayak is a fishing boat that can carry a maximum of 400 pounds. The kayak weighs in at 86 pounds. It measures 12’3″ by 35 inches wide by 12’3″ in length.
The extra width, which is not found in many kayaks, adds stability and makes it suitable for heavy people.
Thanks to its extra width and hull shape, this kayak is one of the most stable fishing boats on the market.
The aluminum-framed seat allows you to sit up higher than usual. This will enable you to paddle more comfortably for those with larger legs.
The mesh material used in the seatback keeps you cool during hot days. There’s ample space to spread out in the open area in front of your seat.
The A.T.A.K. 120 also comes with adjustable foot braces, which can be adjusted to your height. The large rear tank well of the kayak is ideal for holding live bait, tackle crate or any other beverage to keep you hydrated and relaxed on the water.
2. Sea Eagle SE370 Inflatable Kayak Pro Package Review
The Sea Eagle SE370 Pro inflatable kayak is our first. It can support 650 lbs. The kayak measures 12’6 inches in length and 34 inches wide when filled.
Although the interior cockpit is large enough to accommodate three people, this kayak comes with only two inflatable seats. These seats can be adjusted in different positions to suit individual needs. If a person is too heavy to lift one of the seats, he can remove it completely to make way for a solo paddler.
It is worth investing in a small electric pump to inflate your kayak. However, the foot pump takes around eight minutes to inflate the kayak fully.
The Sea Eagle SE370 Pro comes with four-piece kayak paddles as well as a bag. This kayak can handle Class III whitewater and has two skegs to increase its speed and tracking abilities.
It’s inflatable, so there’s not much storage under the splash covers at the bow and stern. Two adults and their camping gear might find it challenging to fit in, but it seems doable. Inflatables are easy to use. With a bit of practice and a low-pressure battery pump to fill the bulk of your air, you can pack and inflate it in less than 5 minutes. It’s easy to store in a small car trunk, and it can also be deflated and packed. It cannot be easy to roll it up tight enough to fit into the carry bag.
Also, be careful not to bend the plastic skegs underside. However, these can be fixed by heating the hairdryer. A reasonably strong person could carry the entire kit in its carry bag with the shoulder strap. However, it is pretty heavy and uncomfortable, so you wouldn’t hike more than a few hundred meters. – GORD PYZER
See Also: pelican bandit nxt 100 kayak
3. Oru Kayak Foldable Kayak: Perfect Outdoor Fun Boat for Fishing, Travel & Adventure
If you’re looking for something small and easy to set up, the Oru Kayak Haven TT will be a great choice. This is also our only folding kayak.
The kayak weighs in at 40 lbs, and has a maximum weight of 500 lbs. The kayak measures 16 feet in length and 28″ wide when fully assembled.
This kayak can be folded up and stored in a bag that you can store back in your car or SUV when it is not being used. The Oru Haven TT folding kayak measures 34″ by 17 inches by 29″ when folded.
The tandem kayak is ideal for intermediate and beginner paddlers. This kayak is perfect for recreational paddling on calm lakes and slow-moving rivers.
Inlet vs Beach LT vs Bay ST vs Coast XT vs Haven TT:
| Items: | Inlet | Bay ST | Beach LT | Haven TT | Coast XT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IDEAL FOR | Casual paddling on lakes and rivers | Recreational paddling on lakes, rivers, and oceans | Casual paddling on lakes and rivers | Casual paddling on lakes and rivers | Frequent, professional performance paddling on lakes, rivers, and oceans |
| SKILL LEVEL | Beginner, Intermediate | Intermediate | Beginner, Intermediate | Beginner, Intermediate | Advanced |
| WEIGHT | 20 pounds | 28 pounds | 26 pounds | 40 pounds | 36 pounds |
| MAXIMUM LOAD CAPACITY | 275 pounds | 300 pounds | 300 pounds | 500 pounds | 400 pounds |
| DIMENSIONS (FOLDED) | 42" x 18" x 10" | 33" x 12" x 29" | 33" x 12" x 29" | 34" x 17" x 29" | 33" x 12" x 29" |
| DIMENSIONS (ASSEMBLED) | 9'6" x 30 in. (at cockpit) | 12 ft. x 25 in. (at cockpit) | 12 ft. x 28 in. (at cockpit) | 16 ft. x 28 in. (at cockpit) | 16 ft. x 25 in (at cockpit) |
4. Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K 140 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak | Premium Angler Kayak
Wilderness Systems A.T.A.K. The 140 version is slightly longer than the A.T.A.K. 120 kayak. This kayak has a maximum weight of 550 pounds and weighs 95 pounds when empty.
It measures 14’1″ in length by 34 inches wide and is best suited to calm lakes or protected coast waterways. It is also a fishing kayak, just like the 120.
It has a deck and cockpit that are flat enough to allow for kayak fishing. You can adjust the aluminum-framed seating system to your liking.
The high position is ideal for active fishing if you need to have a better view and can cast more easily.
When you’re paddling your kayak between fishing spots, the low position is ideal. The recline position can be used to relax and enjoy the sun for a few moments.
A.T.A.K 120 vs A.T.A.K 140 vs Radar 115 vs Radar 135:
| Items: | A.T.A.K 140 | A.T.A.K 120 | Radar 135 | Radar 115 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width | 34" | 35" | 34" | 34-1/2" |
| Length | 14' 1" | 12' 3" | 13' 6" | 11' 8" |
| Deck Height | 15-1/2" | 16" | 16" | 15" |
| Max Capacity | 400 pounds. | 400 pounds. | 475 pounds. | 450 pounds. |
| Weight | 95 pounds. | 86 pounds. | 90 pounds. | 85 pounds. |
| Seat Type | Phase 3 AirPro Seat | Phase 3 AirPro Seat | Phase 3 AirPro Seat | Phase 3 AirPro Seat |
5. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak
The Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak has a tandem design with a maximum weight of 600 lbs. The kayak measures 12’6 inches long and 39″ wide when fully inflated.
This inflatable kayak is the largest, making it an ideal choice for heavy people. It feels more rigid than an inflatable kayak because of the rigid drop stitch floor. The Halkey locking valves ensure that there is no leakage or seepage and maintain 100% air pressure.
The spray shield is located at the bow and helps keep water out of your cockpit in windy or wavy conditions. It also creates a covered storage space at the kayak’s front.
A small covered area is located at the stern for the storage of a cooler or dry bag. The fishing kayak comes with two kayak paddles and two folding seats. There are also two footrests.
This inflatable kayak is portable, thanks to its travel bag. You can transport this kayak and everything else you need on the water’s edge on your back until you are ready for it to inflate and start paddling.
There are many drains on the kayak that can be used to drain water if you’re kayaking in more challenging conditions. There are two inflation chambers on the sides and a central chamber that can be removed. This chamber is strong enough to hold a stand-up paddleboard. Two paddles can be disassembled, a backpack-style carrier, a dual-action pump, and two high-back seats with adjustable footrests are included. Although we have only been using the kayak for a month, so far, it has been a great experience. – JEFF GUSTAFSON
| Items: | Elkton Outdoors Steelhead 130 Inflatable Fishing Kayak | Driftsun Rover 120 Inflatable Kayak | Elkton Outdoors Steelhead 150 Inflatable Fishing Kayak | Driftsun Rover 220 Inflatable Kayak | Elkton Outdoors Rolomolded Hard Fishing Kayaks | Elkton Outdoors Cormorant Inflatable Fishing Kayak |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Person Capacity | Single Rider | 1 Rider | Tandem Riders | 2 Riders | Tandem Riders + Child | 2 Riders |
| Hull Weight | 40 pounds | 22 pounds | 44 pounds | 28 pounds | 72 pounds | 27 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 400 pounds | 300 pounds | 600 pounds | 600 pounds | 650 pounds | 450 pounds |
| Dimensions | 10' 10" x 3' 3" | 28” x 21” | 12' 6" x 3' 3" | 12.5’ x 38” | 12' 3" x 3' | 118" x 35" |
| Material | Laminated PVC | Laminated PVC and Dropstitch | Laminated PVC | Laminated PVC and Dropstitch | Ultra Durable Rotomold Polyethylene | 18-Gauge rip resistant 1000D PVC |
6. Brooklyn Kayak Company PK13
Brooklyn Kayak Company PK13 rigid fishing kayak has a maximum weight of 550 lbs. The kayak weighs in at 80 lbs and measures 13′ long by 33.25″ wide.
The only kayak in our list with a pedal drive propulsion system. You can power your kayak with your hands (with one of the most advanced kayak paddles) or your legs.
You will find the pedal drive system in the cockpit, just in front of your seat. You can reverse it instantly and upgrade to an electric trolling engine if necessary.
The kayak comes with three fishing rod holders built-in and two water-resistant hatches to store gear. It also features a large, open storage compartment in the stern for extra gear items. The kayak’s aluminum-framed seat allows for comfortable paddling throughout the day.
PK11 vs PK12 vs PK13 vs PK14:
| Items: | PK11 | PK12 | PK13 | PK14 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddlers | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Length | 10' 6" | 12' | 13' | 14' |
| Width | 34" | 32.75" | 33.25" | 34" |
| Capacity | 420 pounds | 460 pounds | 550 pounds | 670 pounds |
| Weight | 60 pounds | 70 pounds | 80 pounds | 95 pounds |
| Pedal Drive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Type | Lakes, Rivers, Ocean | Lakes, Rivers, Ocean | Lakes, Rivers, Ocean | Lakes, Rivers, Ocean |
7. Sea Eagle 420x Inflatable Kayak with Deluxe Package
The Sea Eagle 420X inflatable kayak is a sturdy and robust model with a maximum weight of 855 lbs. When fully inflated, the kayak weighs only 42 lbs. It measures 14 feet by 39 inches.
This tandem inflatable kayak is ideal for paddling longer distances on calm lakes and slow-moving rivers due to its extra weight. This kayak can also be easily deflated and stored at home or in your car in a small package.
Sea Eagle Deluxe Package contains:
- Two 4-piece.
- 94-inch Kayak Paddles.
- Two inflatable Kayak Seats.
- A Slide-In Skg.
- A Hand Pump.
- A Repair Kit.
- The necessary carry bag to transport and store everything.
For added durability, this inflatable kayak is made from 1000-denier reinforced material. It also has overlapped seams. These construction elements are what make this kayak suitable for Class IV whitewater.
Tracking on flat water should be easy, and the paddles are of good quality. This boat was bought for my 7-year-old daughter and me to get out on one boat. It is very spacious and comfortable. The boat is ideal for this purpose and can even be stored in a closet, making it even more attractive. Sea Eagle is a quality product that you should consider if this is the type of boat you are looking for. – Jacob Wheeler
8. BOTE Zeppelin Aero Inflatable Kayak | Tandem Kayak | Kayak for Fishing & Recreation
BOTE Zeppelin Aero has a unique design. It almost looks like a hybrid of a kayak and paddleboard. The BOTE Zeppelin Aero features an elevated seat and a flat open cockpit design, which provides ample space for larger people.
This kayak’s inflatable seat, which straps into its cockpit, provides plenty of cushioning and allows you to sit more comfortably. The kayak’s gunwales measure approximately nine inches in thickness at the center and close to 14.5″ at its bow.
The Aero can support 600 lbs of weight and weighs only 41 lbs once fully inflated. It measures 12’6″ long by 38″ wide, and the dimensions of the seat are 18.75″ high, 25″ wide, 22″ deep, and 22″ deep.
This kayak’s floor and tubes are made to withstand higher pressures than other inflatable kayaks. The kayak is more stable and rigid once it’s on the water.
9. Perception Pescador Pilot 12 | Sit on Top Fishing Kayak with Pedal Drive
The Perception Kayaks Pescador Pilot 12 is very similar to the A.T.A.K. Wilderness Systems offers 120 and 140. The pedal drive system of this kayak is reminiscent of the BKC PK13.
The Pilot 12 can carry a maximum weight of 475 lbs, while the boat weighs 95 lbs before being loaded. It measures 12 feet by 33.5″ in length and width.
The kayak comes with a one-handed rudder control, which allows you to use your other hand for your fishing rod. It also features a comfortable mesh captain’s chair, which can be removed if you wish to change your setup.
10. Driftsun Rover 220 Inflatable Whitewater Kayak
The Driftsun Rover 220, rated up to Class IV whitewater, is another excellent option for heavy people looking for an inflatable whitewater boat. The kayak can support 600 lbs of weight and weighs only 28 lbs once fully inflated.
Inflating the floor and side tubes to 6 PSI or 3 PSI should take approximately nine minutes. When completed, this kayak measures 12’5″ in length, 38″ in width, and 13″ deep.
It can be used by one paddler or two. The kayak comes with two paddles, a handle pump, a bag, and a removable rear tracking fin.
Buying Guide for Kayaks For Fat People, Big Man Kayaks:
Weight Capacity
When shopping for a kayak, the first thing you should consider is its ability to support your weight. Although kayaks won’t sink completely if you over-load them with 10 to 15 pounds, it can affect their ability to perform at their best.
Good news: Most kayak manufacturers will advertise the maximum weight of their kayak models. However, you may not want to use this rating without making your calculations.
We recommend that you establish your kayak’s maximum weight limit. You can use the full capacity provided by the manufacturer to calculate how much weight you can put into your kayak before it sinks too low.
Most kayaking groups agree that 80 is the ideal number. This means that you should only fill your kayak with 80 percent of what the manufacturer recommends.
Let’s take, for example, the maximum weight of the tandem kayak you and your partner are interested in is 600 lbs. This is according to the manufacturer. Multiply 600 times 0.8 to find the kayak’s actual capacity.
600 x 0.8 = 480 pounds
You can expect your kayak to perform as intended on the water if you don’t load it with more than 480 lbs. If you load your kayak with more than 480 pounds, it will become less maneuverable and more likely that water will enter the cockpit.
Remember that your kayak’s final weight will include the combined weight of all paddlers and all accessories.
When calculating the weight of your ideal kayak, be sure to include 50 to 100 pounds worth of kayaking gear.
Storage
It would help if you also considered how much storage space your kayak needs. You will need to have enough space for dry bags, extra clothes, sleeping gear, and cooking tools if you are planning to make overnight paddling trips on the shores of large bodies of fresh water.
You won’t need nearly as much storage space if you’re looking for a more recreational kayak. However, it is essential to consider the design of your storage space.
Sit-on-top kayaks have open storage areas, which are ideal for kayak tackle crates and trolling motor batteries.
Kayaks with bulkhead compartments are protected from the elements by waterproof hatches.
A sit-on-top kayak with open storage spaces is better if accessibility is your main priority. You may prefer weather protection but a sit-in kayak with sealed bulkhead compartments is better.
Inflatable vs. Rigid, vs. Folding
You’ll discover that there are a variety of kayaks suitable for fat people. Some are rigid, and others are inflatable. Others are folding. Let’s now discuss the pros and cons of each.
Inflatable Kayaks: Pros and Cons
Inflatable kayaks have the advantage of taking up less space than rigid kayaks. They are popular among travelers and people with smaller cars or SUVs.
They aren’t as efficient over long distances as rigid kayaks and require an electric pump to ensure you don’t get tired during the inflation process. These are the instructions.
Rigid Kayaks: Pros and Cons
Intermediate to advanced kayakers interested in kayak touring will find rigid kayaks the best choice. These kayaks offer the best on-water performance, and they are compatible with the best kayak spray skirts.
A rigid kayak will require a lot of storage space, so you’ll need to have a lot of space in your garage. They are also the heaviest and bulkiest kayak type when it comes to transporting your kayak from home to your favorite paddling spots.
Folding Kayaks: Pros and Cons
The folding kayak is a relatively new concept in the market. They are still being tested to see if they can perform as well as other types. However, we have found that folding kayaks perform better than rigid kayaks in terms of performance.
Folding kayaks offer the same advantages as inflatable kayaks in terms of being easy to transport and store. They also eliminate the need to use an electric pump for setup. This means that your kayak is less likely to be damaged if one of its air chambers becomes punctured or torn.
Final Thoughts
Many kayak manufacturers offer kayaks that can be used by larger paddlers, up to 500 pounds. Many of these kayaks come with extra features that will make your first fishing or recreational kayaking trip much more enjoyable.
You can now be more knowledgeable about the best kayaks for big men, regardless of whether you are looking to buy a kayak for a man 300/400/500 pounds or fishing. [other models]
