The best Lifetime kayaks for 2023 feature excellent quality and designs for your next lake or river kayaking adventure. In this review, we’ll determine the best Lifetime youth kayak for kids, the best Lifetime adult one-person and two-person tandem kayaks, and the best Lifetime fishing kayak. We’ll also recommend the best life vests for each type of kayak used. Finally, we’ll suggest appropriate transport mounts and accessories, so you have everything you need to get started.
Made out of high-density polyethylene plastic, making them very durable and lightweight, Lifetime kayaks are among the most stable sit-on-top kayaks in the world. Different styles and accessories are available for adult kayaks, youth kayaks for kids, and fishing kayaks. You’ll appreciate lots of handy built-in features that are available in Lifetime kayaks, including cup holders, paddle cradles, and rod holders for our fishing kayaks.
Before we get to the Lifetime kayak details, we wanted to thank you for popping by our pontoon accessories website. We believe that kayaking is a great lake activity for your next boating getaway. While here, you may also be interested in our reviews of the best pontoon slide, diving board, and party boat accessories. If you are looking for lake activities check out our posts about the inflatable paddle boards, the floating lily pads and water mats, and towable tubes.
Top Considerations When Choosing a Lifetime Kayak
A Lifetime kayak allows you to reach scenic beachside campgrounds, quietly explore a hard to get to fishing bed, enjoy awesome views that can’t be seen from shore, get in a morning workout around the lake, or just play in the water with the kids.
Just as there are many ways to use kayaks, there are many choices of boats. How do you know which kayak is best for you? When you’re trying to decide on a kayak, focus on a few key ideas:
- Where do you want to paddle? Is it a lake, an ocean, or a river? This will help you start to narrow your choices.
- Sit-in or sit-on-top? Do you prefer the protection of a traditional sit-in or the openness of a sit-on-top? If you’re open to either one, that’s fine, too.
- Kayak weight and your budget: Materials, which directly impact the boat’s price, are the biggest factor in the weight and durability of your boat.
- Shape and size considerations: These affect handling and cargo space.
Once you’ve narrowed that down, you’ll have an easier time deciding what kayak is best for you. For the sake of this post, and to keep your search simple, we’ve narrowed the choice down to the best youth kayak, adult one and tandem kayak, and the best fishing kayak by Lifetime.
Best 6 Lifetime Kayaks for Kids, Adults, and Fishing
| No. | Lifetime Kayak | Type | Riders | Summary |
| 1. | Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak With Paddle | Youth | One | Appropriately sized and well-constructed kayak for kids learning to kayak. |
| 2. | Lifetime Tioga Sit-On-Top Kayak with Paddle (2 Pack) | Adult | One | This two-pack kayak bundle is hard to pass up for most teenage and adult kayakers. |
| 3.. | Lifetime Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top Kayak | Adult | One | Excellent sit-on-top kayak for beginner to intermediate users. |
| 4. | Lifetime Kokanee Sit-On-Top Tandem Kayak | Adult | Two | Great two-person kayak for beginner and intermediate users. |
| 5. | Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak | Adult | One | Excellent one-person kayak with great accessories for fishing. |
| 6. | Lifetime 10 Foot, Two Person Tandem Fishing Kayak with Paddles | Adult | Two | Fishing with two people is a ton of fun. Watch your casts! |
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Best Lifetime Youth Kayak for 2023
Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak is by far the best kayak for youth in 2023. Not only is it budget-friendly but it will last a “lifetime”.
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All paddlers want to start their little one’s kayaking as young as they can. Some start on their parent’s lap as they paddle around in protected lakes, the kids long to try on their own. It is a remarkable sight, watching a 19 lb kid trying to wield a 100cm paddle and a 10-foot kayak.
The Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak in 2023 is a perfect kayak for young kids. It is incredibly stable; parents should never be concerned about kids flipping over. Its foot length makes it extraordinarily receptive and maneuverable. It comes with a backrest, which can be tightened to help move the kids forward to allow their feet to reach the footrests, which means there is room to grow in years to come.
Features and Benefits of the Lifetime Youth Wave Kayak
This little Lifetime kayak is stable in the lakes, slow rivers, and ocean bays. It is the ideal kayaking equipment for the kids and includes excellent features. Certified for child safety precautions anywhere in the world. The Lifetime Kayak also comes with a 5-year warranty. It comes with dimensions of Length: 6 foot 11inches, Width 24inches, Depth: 9inches, weight 19lbs, paddler capacity one child and is made of high-density polyethylene.
The child paddle is made from polypropylene material, durable and reliable on the grip, with a secure blade and an aluminum shaft. The blade size length is 13.3 inches by 6.0 inches width and the shaft diameter measures 1.1 inches. In addition, the surface area range is 62.8 square feet inches.
More Comfortable than Expected
The Lifetime kayaks for children are made of polyethylene material, and as a sit-on-top kayak, you can boldly let your kid paddle on his own. Sit-on-top kayaks are best known for stability. With this reasonably priced kayak for children, Kids can now experience their first kayak and start paddling on their own. It is essential to help children build Paddling skills before buying a kayak and let them control it on their own to enable them to gain confidence once they go kayaking by themselves.
What Kayakers Are Saying About The Youth Lifetime Wave Kayak
After two summers, we’re still happy with it.
For what we are using the kayak for, it’s perfect. We have not come up against any problems whatsoever in the 2 summers my daughter has used it. My daughter was 8 years old when we first got it, and she found the kayak very easy to use.
Before we purchased, I contacted the company to try to figure out how long she would be able to use the kayak (I didn’t want to get it and find out that she would be too big when she turned 10, for example). They explained that there is no real height limit, only a weight limit (130 lbs). Obviously this kayak is shorter than an adult’s kayak, but it’s true, an adult woman under the weight limit could use it though her knees would be somewhat bent. Anyway, the point is that if you are buying this for an 8-year-old, it should be usable for years.
I admit we haven’t exactly strained the limits of this kayak, but for our use (8/9/10-year-old on lakes) we’ve been nothing but pleased. I don’t know if it’s lacking some features people want but for us, it’s done the job and we’ve been happy.
Lifetime Youth Kayak User via Amazon
Fantastic kayak for kids.
Fantastic kayak for kids.
We bought one of these for my daughter when she turned 7, and she took to it immediately. The molded seat fits her just fine, and will probably be good for a few years. We just bought a second one for my son when he turned 6.
These are solid little kayaks. Dropped one off of the roof rack onto the asphalt with no problems. No frills, but solid little kayak for the money. Just got back from an everglades trip where we did a two-mile loop through the mangroves. Spectacular!
Lifetime Youth Kayak User via Amazon
Best Life Jacket / PFD for Youth Kayaking
Astral Kids Otter 2.0 Life Jacket PFD for Kayaking, Sailing, and Stand Up Paddle Boarding
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Astral makes the best you lifejacket / PFD for kayaking and other water sports. The Otter keeps them afloat with organic Kapok and PE foam inserts that have USCG Type III approval. The soft Kapok front panels conform to kids of all body types for a comfortable, secure fit and the side adjustments are easy for kids to reach and adjust.
Made to last for many adventures, the Astral Kids Otter 2.0 has a 200 x 400 denier ripstop nylon shell and 200 denier lightweight nylon liner with heavy-duty hardware, and non-corrosive coil zipper.
You’ll find two zippered pockets to stash snacks and small gear and a whistle lanyard for extra safety. The Otter weighs only 1.3 lbs. Every product in the Astral youth line is completely free of toxic PVC.
Best Lifetime Adult Kayak for 2023
Emotion Spitfire Sit-On-Top 8 Foot Adult Kayak
The Lifetime Emotion Spitfire adult kayak is by far the best overall sit-on-top kayak for adults in 2023. Not only is it budget-friendly but it will last a “lifetime”.
- Constructed of High Density Polyethylene for superior strength and durability; 240 lb. weight capacity
- ST Performance Hull offers execptional stability and tracking
- Front, rear, and side carry handles for easy transport
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Features and Benefits of the Lifetime Emotion Spitfire Adult Kayak
The Lifetime kayaks for adults come just as highly recommended as the youth kayaks. Their sit-on-top kayak was designed for fun-loving paddlers everywhere. The polyethylene blow-molded production process makes it super lightweight, and its length makes it relatively fast and extremely efficient.
The rocker profile and lifted bow ensure that it is maneuverability and quickly punches through waves. It comes with a padded backrest and sailing self-storage hatch for added storage beneath the deck, rear with cargo net cover, bow storage area with bungee cords. The stackable design makes it easy to store your kayak for next summer.
What Kayakers Are Saying About The Lifetime Emotion Spitfire Adult Kayak
Great kayak for recreational use.
I took the Spitfire 8 out for its maiden voyage yesterday. It handled really well in 16 mph winds. It was sturdy, easy to keep on course, and a lot more stable than I thought it would be. I bought it so that I could lock it in my pickup’s 8′ footbed. It fits perfectly with the tailgate up and now I don’t have to worry about it getting stolen. I’ve lost to thieves kayaks sticking out of the back of my pickup in the past.
I will say that the carrying grips molded in the port and starboard sides are useless. So I installed handles over them using tri-grip 3/16″ rivets. Use a 13/64″ drill for the pilot holes. I’ve had a Perception sit-in kayak and Heritage Redfish 10′ sit-on-top in the past. This little kayak will keep me on the water as a recreational kayaker without it taking up much space. Plus it’s lightweight and easy for one person to carry and stow.
Lifetime Spitfire User via Amazon
Great for beginning paddlers.
I like how light and small these kayaks are. I’m a small female and can load myself. I bought 2 and both fit in the back of my Subaru easily.
Beware they are wider than they look at about 32″, so your paddle needs to be longer to accommodate.
Unfortunately, these kayaks are a bit too flat on the bottom so we will need to add a skeg to the bottom for better tracking.
Lifetime Emotion Spitfire User via Amazon
Best Life Jacket / PFD for Adult Kayaking
Astral Ronny Life Jacket PFD for Recreation, Fishing, and Touring Kayaking
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The Astral Ronny is an excellent PFD with a buoyancy rating of 16 lbs and has a USCG Type III approval. The back panel is made of super-thin foam and mesh that keeps you cool and lets you lean back against the tallest seats. With center front zip and adjustable buckles at the side, it weighs only 1.02 lbs
Made to last for many adventures, the Astral Ronny PFD features a 200 denier high tenacity nylon shell and liner, PolyPro webbing, heavy-duty hardware, and zippers with self-locking teeth. Multiple front storage pockets make it easy to access your small gear and include a mesh liner for additional comfort and breathability.
Best Lifetime Two-Person Tandem Kayak for 2023
Lifetime Kokanee Sit-On-Top 2 Person Tandem Kayak
The Lifetime Kokanee 2 person tandem kayak is by far the best overall sit-on-top tandem kayak for adults in 2023. Not only is it budget-friendly but it will last a “lifetime”.
- Constructed of UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Versatile Design Allows for Solo or Tandem Paddling
- Two Adjustable Quick Release Seat Backs for Comfort
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Features and Benefits of the Lifetime Kokanee Two-Person Tandem Kayak
The Lifetime Kokanee is constructed of UV-protected high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and features a hull design with ultra stability and great tracking. The scupper holes quickly drain the cockpit area to keep you dry.
The Kokanee tandem kayak features easy-carry handles and multiple footrest positions for different sized riders. Also included at 2 ditty trays and shock cord straps to secure loose items. The Kokanee is a lightweight 76 lb. designed kayak.
What Kayakers Are Saying About The Lifetime Kokanee Two-Person Tandem Kayak
Excellent two-person tandem kayak.
This kayak is perfect for 2 people, and if you’re like our family of 4 (2 children, 9 & 5), this will be a godsend. It is quite heavy to carry to and from the beach and to get it up on the top of our crossover. Based on the amount of space this kayak is a win in my book!
Kokanee Kayak User via Amazon
Best Lifetime Fishing Kayak for 2023
Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
The Lifetime Tamarack fishing kayak is by far the best overall sit-on-top fishing kayak for adults in 2023. Not only is it budget-friendly and feature-rich, but it will last a “lifetime”.
- Constructed of UV-Protected High-Density Polyethylene. Stable Flat Bottom. Deep Hull Tracking Channels. Stability Chine Rails
- Multiple Footrest Positions for Different Size Riders. Adjustable Padded Seat Back and Seat Pad for Comfort. Front and Rear...
- Two Flush Mounted Fishing Rod Holders. One Top Mount Fishing Rod Holder
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Features and Benefits of the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak
The Lifetime Tamarack fishing kayak is another great kayak constructed of UV-protected high-density polyethylene. The fishing kayak features a stable flat bottom, a deep hull with tracking channels, and stability chine rails. You’ll enjoy multiple footrest positions for different sized riders, adjustable padded seat back, and seat pad for added comfort.
The front and rear shock cord straps and convenient and the two flush-mounted and one top-mounted fishing rod holders are perfectly placed. This kayak also features two 6″ storage compartments in the rear and the center. You’ll also find one paddle keeper with shock cords and front and rear t-handles for easy transport.
NOTE: If you love catching fish, check out our recent post on the best fishing accessories for 2023.
What Kayakers Are Saying About The Lifetime Tamarack Angler Fishing Kayak
We love it.
First Kayak purchase so I can’t really compare to others, but I love it! Took it on a “float trip” down the Arkansas River and everyone was pretty jealous of it! Had it a few times out on the lake and it did great. I can not say enough good things about Lifetime!
Their customer service via e-mail pas phenomenal! Quick response, they went above and beyond what they needed to. I had an issue with my kayak that was my fault and they were quick to fix the issue for me.
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Kayak User via Amazon
Our best purchase ever.
I was very skeptical about purchasing a kayak sight-unseen from a company that also made my picnic table- but it was drop-shipped at my door a few days later and I could be more pleased. Overall quality is great, and for the price I’d buy it again and again!
Lifetime Tamarack Angler Kayak User via Amazon
Best Life Jacket / PFD for Kayak Fishing
Stohlquist Fisherman Fishing Kayak Life Jacket
The Stohlquist kayak fishing life jacket features a higher mesh-back design for a better fit with modern, taller seatbacks in fishing boats. The EVA pockets act as fold-down work surfaces and the padded shoulders and lower back waistband add comfort.
You’ll find mounting locations for tippets, retractors, nippers, and leader-lines plus multiple pockets with holes for drainage.
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Kayaking FAQs
What are the best places to use a kayak?
Per REI, here are the best places to use a kayak…
Lakes: We’re talking the local lake here, not Lake Superior. If the weather is fair and the destination is near, you can go with any sit-on-top or recreational sit-in boat and have fun. If whitecaps appear, then a purely recreational boat can get overmatched.
Coasts: This is where wind, waves, currents, tides and more all come into play. So having a sit-in touring boat with a rudder, fixed tracking fin or a skeg (a dropdown fin) is wise. If you live in a warm environment where you don’t mind going for a swim, or you plan to do some kayak surfing, a sit-on-top can still be a fine choice.
Rivers: We’re not talking about technical rapids—whitewater kayaks are beyond the scope of this article. If you’re floating on a river, you want a stable, sturdy craft that turns quickly. That might be a short, stable recreational sit-in or sit-on-top boat or day touring sit-in kayak.
Rivers and lakes: If you plan to use your boat in both flowing and still waters, go with a short recreational sit-in or sit-on-top kayak. These crossover boats typically have a skeg. That setup will help you turn responsively when the skeg is up and track efficiently when the skeg is down. A short boat with a rudder would also be an option, but rudders are typically found on longer boats.
What are some tips for beginning kayakers?
Tips for Your First Time Kayaking
- Start small with a calm body of water. Lakes or ponds with little or no powerboat traffic are ideal.
- Find a gently sloping sandy beach to launch.
- Go on a sunny, windless day.
- If it’s breezy, start out by paddling into the wind.
- Plan on an outing, not an expedition.
Do kayaks tip over easily?
No, kayaks are not designed to flip over easily. The odds that you will flip your kayak really depends on the two main factors, what type of kayak do you have what type of water are you going to paddle on.
What are some kayaking tips?
- Always wear your life jacket!
- Leave your valuables at home so you don’t lose them in the river. (such as rings, wallets, necklaces, expensive eyeglasses)
- Use a strap to secure eyeglasses or sunglasses.
- Wear shoes that can get wet.
- Don’t tie canoes together or grab other canoes.
- Do not throw trash in the river or on the river bank.
- Do not bring GLASS BOTTLES. Glass bottles sink to the bottom of the river, create a hazard if broken and will never decompose.
- We strongly recommend that you do not consume alcohol while kayaking.
- Respect private property
Sit-on-top or sit inside kayak?
Sit-on-Top Kayaks
A sit-on-top kayak is about the easiest craft for learning basic kayaking skills–and for getting hooked on the joys of self-propelled watercraft. Something like an elegant hybrid of surfboard, canoe, and traditional kayak, the boat has a sealed hull and molded seats for straightforward entry and exit. Commonly fashioned from polyethylene, sit-on-top kayaks have a large beam to bolster stability and often sport self-bailing holes to shed water splashed into the cockpit.
Sit-Inside Kayaks
The sit-in kayak is the traditional one, going back thousands of years to the Arctic and subarctic peoples who invented these sleek boats for efficient hunting and transport. The category of course includes such specialized crafts as sea and whitewater kayaks, but here we’re considering the recreational version.
Best Lifetime Kayaks Accessories for 2023
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Table could not be displayed.Best Lifetime Kayak Cart for Easy Transportation
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Excellent Kayak Car Top Carriers for 2023
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Top Rated Kayak Paddles
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Lifetime Kayak Quick Links
- Lifetime Kayaks for Kids
- Lifetime Kayaks for Adults
- Lifetime Kayaks for Two People
- Lifetime Kayaks for Fishing
- All Lifetime Products