INTEX Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak 2-Person Set with Paddles & Pump

Why it's worth it

The Excursion Pro K2 arrives as a full kit: two 86-inch paddles, a high-output pump, two skegs, rod holders and a repair patch. The 3-ply laminate PVC is a real step up from single-layer boats, and it carries 400 pounds — two adults plus a day's gear.

You get everything in one box. Two paddles, a pump, two removable skegs, two fishing rod holders, a phone and camera mount, a carry bag and a repair patch. Nothing else to order, nothing to discover missing at the ramp. For a first kayak that alone is worth a lot, because accessories bought separately add up fast and you don't yet know what you need.

The 3-ply laminate hull is the reason to pick this over the cheap stuff. Intex laminates three layers around a reinforced PVC formulation, which resists scrapes from gravel launches, bumps against docks and long days in the sun. It also holds more pressure than a single-layer boat, so the hull ends up stiffer. That's the line between a real kayak and something that belongs in a backyard pool.

From our review of 7 inflatable kayaks, by Genevieve Dubois, Home & Living Expert

What we like

• +You get everything in one box
• +The 3-ply laminate hull is the reason to pick this over the cheap stuff
• +Two skegs let you tune how it handles
• +It's a decent fishing platform

What to know

• –The seats are the weak spot
• –Quality control is uneven
• –It's slow