Kayaks have become an increasingly popular water activity. Kayaks have a number of benefits, including exercise, access to nature, and promoting the US economy. We researched and contacted over 100 kayak companies and discovered there are many different kayaks that are made right here in the United States with US materials.
In this article, we will go over the 25 best kayaks that are made in the USA.
THE 25 BEST KAYAKS MADE IN THE USA
1. Jackson Kayak
Jackson Kayak has a huge range of kayaks available for fishing and recreational use. Jackson Kayaks come in both pedal and paddle models. Their kayaks can support a range of users from children to advanced adult users and range in size from just over 5 feet up to 14 feet. They have one of the biggest varieties of kayaks, which shows in their pricing.
Their kayaks have many unique features, such as their patented shock absorbing system, and their thigh hooks, which give your thigh and knee a more secure and comfortable fit. Jackson Kayak is a family run business that makes kayaks in the USA. They employ over 100 local people.
Width: 22.25 inches – 40 inches
Length: 5 feet 2 inches – 14 feet
Weight: 21 lbs – 138 lbs
Capacity: 100 lbs – 550lbs
Cost: $799.00 – $4,199.00
2. Crescent Kayaks
Crescent Kayaks makes about 10 different kinds of Kayak. Each kayak is molded and assembled in the Southeastern United States. This includes the resin used to make the deck, as well as their hand-made seats. Their kayaks are designed to paddle with ease and allow plenty of features and space for fishing. Kayaks range in size and weight, depending on your specific needs.
Width: 30 inches – 35 inches
Length: 10 feet 2 inches – 13 feet
Weight: 47 lbs – 85 lbs
Capacity: 280 lbs – 600 lbs
Cost: $499.00-$1,749.00
3. Sun Dolphin
Sun Dolphin makes about 15 kayaks. This includes recreational kayaks, of which are 4 sit-in and 6 are sit-on kayaks for recreational use, as well as fishing kayaks, of which 3 are sit-on kayaks and 2 are sit-in kayaks. Their kayaks are manufactured and assembled in the USA along Lake Michigan. Sun Dolphin has a wide range of kayak sizes and capacities, ranging from shorter 6 foot kayaks that support 140 capacity to much larger kayaks that can support up to 500 pounds.
Their kayaks support features such as drink holders, paddle holders, storage, spray deflector, adjustable foot braces, carrying handles, and more!
Width: 25.25 inches – 33.25 inches
Length: 6 feet – 13 feet 5.5 inches
Weight: 27 lbs – 78 lbs
Capacity: 140 lbs – 500 lbs
Cost: $381.00-$1,033.00
4. Evoke
Evoke Paddlesports makes 9 different kayaks, of which 4 are designed for recreational use and 5 are designed for fishing. Evoke kayaks are all designed, molded, and assembled in the USA. Some of their kayaks are perfect for lakes and rivers, while most are perfect for streams as well. They sell kayaks for all experience levels.
Their kayaks are sold through other dealers, so pricing will vary.
Width: 29 inches – 35.6 inches
Length: 10 feet inches – 12 feet 6 inches
Weight: 50 lbs – 68 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs – 500 lbs
Cost: ~ $449.00 -$749.00
5. Lincoln Canoe and Kayak
Lincoln Canoe and Kayak has been making their canoes and kayaks in the USA since 1959. They have 6 kayak models, each made for touring. Each kayak can be customized in a number of ways including the use of carbon fiber to reduce weight, and a large variety of color options for the deck, hull, seam strip, cockpit trim, seat color, and more. Lincoln kayaks are made by hand, one at a time.
Width: 22.5 inches – 29 inches
Length: 12 feet 6 inches – 17 feet 2 inches
Weight: 29 lbs – 55 lbs
Capacity: 150 lbs – 350 lbs
Cost: $3,383.00 – $4,996.00
6. Lifetime Kayaks
Lifetime makes a large variety of sport equipment in the USA, including all of their kayaks. Their kayaks are blow molded in the states of Utah and Tennessee. They make one of the larger variety of kayaks, with over 50 models to choose from. This includes recreational sit-in and sit on kayaks, fishing kayaks, and youth kayaks.
7. Tucktec
Tucktec Folding Kayaks is a family run kayak company located in Myrtle Beach South Carolina. All of their kayaks are made in the USA, including all parts and pieces. They either make their parts themselves or source them locally. The kayak’s special folding design means it’s small enough to fit in your trunk and store in a closet, yet still has no open holes or folds for water to get in.
The kayak can fold down to just 4 feet by 15 inches. It takes only a couple of minutes to setup, which is normally faster than an inflatable kayak that also doesn’t take up much space when not inflated. Plus, since it has a hard shell, it still performs like a normal kayak, but cannot pop like an inflatable kayak. At just 20 pounds, it’s one of the lightest kayaks on this list. Tucktec also makes a light-weight version that’s just 10 pounds.
Width: 30 inches
Length: 10 feet
Weight: 20 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs
Cost: $349.00
8. Old Town Canoe and Kayak
Old Town Canoe and Kayak now includes the Ocean Kayak brand. Old Town Ocean Kayaks are made in their own facility in Old Town, Maine, USA. They claim to be the world’s oldest manufacturer of kayaks and canoes. Their kayaks are made for all use types from fishing and hunting to touring and recreation. With other 50 kayak models, they easily have one of the largest selections of kayaks. Old Town kayaks can be powered, paddled, or peddled.
Width: 23 inches – 37 inches
Length: 7 feet 5 inches – 18 feet 1 inch
Weight: 26 lbs – 158 lbs
Capacity: 115 lbs – 660 lbs
Cost: $499.99 – $5,999.00
9. ASCEND
Ascend kayaks are made in Missouri and are part of the boating division of Bass Pro Shops, which was also founded in Missouri. They make about 9 different kayaks, some of which are sit-on, and others sit-on. They make kayaks for recreation, fishing, as well as 2 hybrid models that can be used for both. Their kayaks are made for new or casual paddlers, tournament fishermen, and more. Since each of their kayaks are NMMA® certified, you have peace of mind knowing they meet a high level of safety and construction standards and federal regulations.
Width: 29 inches – 36.5 inches
Length: 9 feet – 13 feet
Weight: 50 lbs – 125 lbs
Capacity: 225 lbs – 550 lbs
Cost: $300.00-$1,100.00
10. Native Watercraft
Native Watercraft makes 5 models of kayaks in North Carolina. They actually joined forces with Bonafide, Hurricane, and liquid logic, all who make kayaks in the USA but maintain their own lines. They are committed to keeping the environment clean so that paddling will always have a future. They recycle materials as much as possible and their kayaks are made of materials that can almost all be recycled at the end of the kayak’s lifespan. Native kayaks can also be motorized.
Width: 30.5 inches – 40 inches
Length: 10 feet – 15 feet 3 inches
Weight: 60 lbs – 172 lbs
Capacity: 325 lbs – 600 lbs
Cost: $999.00 – $3,699.00
11. Sterling Kayaks
Sterling Kayaks are made in Washington state. Not only are they made in the USA, but they also source all supplies from US companies. They make 5 different models of kayak design for tracking and recreation. Their kayaks feature an ergonomic cockpit with an added thigh brace that is also designed for lay-back rolls. They also have an option to customize the color of the deck, hull, coaming, highline stripe, and more.
Sterling Kayaks are only sold through a few distributors, so prices will vary.
Width: 19.5 inches – 23.5 inches
Length: 16 feet – 17 feet 3 inches
Weight: 32 lbs – 55 lbs
Capacity: 281 lbs – 425 lbs
Cost: $6,350.00 – $8,225.00
12. Liquidlogic Kayaks
Liquid Logic kayaks are made in the USA. They sell kayaks made for recreation, whitewater rafting, and crossover. Their kayaks come in both sit-in and sit-on models and some even have space for your dog! Some of their models are paddle driven and others pedal. Their “Remix” model is designed to excel in whitewater but still carries speed across calm and slow water. Liquid Logic sells their kayaks through a network of specialty retailers and emphasizes using local retailers over large chain stores.
Width: 21 inches – 35 inches
Length: 7 feet 3 inches – 13 feet 6 inches
Weight: 28 lbs – 80 lbs
Capacity: 110 lbs – 500 lbs
Cost: $799.00 – $1,799.00
13. Bonafide Kayaks
While Liquid Logic makes kayaks focused on recreation and whitewater, Bonafide focuses on fishing kayaks. Bonafide makes 8 models of kayaks. Since they are designed for anglers, they are designed to be out longer, and have better control and power. They also sell a line of pedal-powered kayaks so that you can keep your hands on your rod while fishing. Bonafide kayaks can be motorized as well.
Width: 29.5 inches – 35 inches
Length: 10 feet 7 inches – 12 feet 9 inches
Weight: 50 lbs – 120 lbs
Capacity: 375 lbs – 500 lbs
Cost: $1,049.00 – $2,999.00
14. NuCanoe
NuCanoe makes its kayaks in the USA and over 95% over the parts are also made in the USA. They have about 6 kayaks that are made for different purposes. For example, their Flint model is a lightweight kayak meant to be launched from anywhere. It’s portable, has good speed, and also their least expensive model. Then there is the Pursuit model kayak, which is an ever faster kayak that is useful in tournaments.They also sell models for fishing, hunting, and families.
Width: 33 inches – 41 inches
Length: 10 feet – 13 feet 6 inches
Weight: 63 lbs – 85 lbs
Capacity: 350 lbs – 700 lbs
Cost: $1,099.00 – $1,799.00
15. Pakayak
Pakayak is another kayak company that molds and hand makes its kayaks in the USA. Unlike other kayaks, Pakayak breaks down into several sections that clamp back together with their patented system. This system forms a watertight seal in which each seam can hold 500 pounds of force. It takes just 3 minutes to assemble, which is less time than to set up many other kayaks, including inflatable, foldable, and traditional kayaks. It folds down to an area of about 3.5 feet so it can fit anywhere. It also comes with a carrying case on wheels so you can bring it anywhere.
Width: 24 inches
Length: 14 feet 2 inches
Weight: 49 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs
Cost: $1,995.00
16. Long Haul Folding Kayaks
Long Haul Folding Kayaks are handmade in the USA. They have 5 models of folding kayaks are among the few who use wood to construct their kayaks. One of their kayaks can support a capacity of about 900 pounds, which is one of the highest on this list. Their kayaks can be customized to support more features.
Width: 28 inches – 36 inches
Length: 12 feet 10 inches – 17 feet 5 inches
Weight: 50lbs – 89 lbs
Capacity: 260 – 900 lbs
Cost: $2,950-$5,411.00
17. Lightning kayaks
Lighting Kayaks makes 3 different kayak models, all out of their facility in Minnesota, making it the only rotomolded kayak made in the USA. Each of the 3 models comes in various colors, so you have the option to select the color of your kayak at no extra cost. All of their kayaks are pedal driven, which makes them perfect for all used, even those without paddling experience. From personal experience with disabled family members, pedal crafts are significantly easier for some than paddle crafts.
Width: 33 inches – 34 inches
Length: 10 feet 6 inches – 12 feet 6 inches
Weight: 77 lbs – 94 lbs
Capacity: 400 lbs – 420 lbs
Cost: $1,699.00 – $2,199.00
18. Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz kayaks are manufactured in a facility in Washington. The unique design of their Raptor G1 and G2 discourages rolling by shifting water flow from directly down the center of the kayak towards the sides. This makes it easier to keep the kayak stable, which is helpful when you’re trying to catch fish without worrying about tipping. Both models are 13 feet long and 34 inches wide, but differ slightly in weight and holding capacity.
Width: 34 inches
Length: 13 feet
Weight: 66 lbs – 76 lbs
Capacity: 360 lbs – 380 lbs
Cost: $1,299.00 – $1,799.00
19. KYSEK
KYSEK makes just one kayak model. It’s made for both hunting and fishing so it’s designed to be stable and comfortable. The kayak is made in the USA and supports features such as shotgun rest, comfort deck pads, an extra large seat, 2 rod holders, a carbon fiber paddle, and more. They also make a cooler that fits perfectly in the back of the kayak.
Width: 34 inches
Length: 12 feet
Weight: 63 lbs
Capacity: 450 lbs
Cost: $3,495.00
20. Driftsun
Driftsun makes its kayaks in the USA in California. Driftsun sells mainly inflatable kayaks, but they do have one hard shell kayak model, which is a tandem kayak and their most expensive and heaviest model. Since they are inflatable, most of their kayaks are fairly lightweight. Their kayaks are made for both recreational purposes and fishing. Many Driftsun kayak models are designed to perform well in both rough and flat waters.
Width: 32 inches – 40 inches
Length: 9 feet 6 inches – 14 feet 6 inches
Weight: 22 lbs – 72 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs – 600 lbs
Cost: $399.99 – $1,299.99
21. Beavertail
Beavertail makes a type of kayak called a sneak boat. They make their sneak boats in the US. Their boats are mainly intended for hunting and have features so your dog can come along with you. The twin hull catamaran style bottom makes the boat stable for standing, throwing, and other hunting needs. It can also float in just 4-5 inches of water.
Width: 32 inches – 44 inches
Length: 8 feet – 12 feet
Weight: 75 lbs – 150 lbs
Capacity: 360 lbs – 550 lbs
22. Solo Skiff
Solo Skiff is not your conventional kayak. It’s a kayak built for fishing, but also has a motor if you want it. The motor means you’ll be able to get places quickly since it can travel over 15 mph. Even though it was designed to handle a motor, it’s still easy to paddle and float in just 3 inches of water. The Solo Skiff kayak has a grab bar to make loading and launching easier. It also has a built-in cooler you can use to keep your drinks cold, store dry clothing, or even converted into a bait well.
It’s one of the biggest kayaks on this list by width, length, and weight. Solo Skiff is made in the USA and sold through various dealers across the country, so prices may vary.
Width: 41 inches
Length: 14.5 feet
Weight: 150 lbs
Capacity: 400 lbs
Cost: $2,450.00
23. Hurricane Kayaks
Hurricane Kayaks are assembled in the USA in a small town in North Carolina, but they use parts from other countries. They sell 7 different series of kayaks, many of which come in different models. For example, the Santee Series has 4 different models, including tandem and sport options. Their kayaks are known for being light-weight and easy to paddle.
Width: 24 inches – 33 inches
Length: 10 feet 6 inches – 14.5 feet
Weight: 36 lbs – 65 lbs
Capacity: 275 lbs – 425 lbs
Cost: $1,199.00 – $1,799.00
24. AIRE
Some of AIRE kayaks are designed and assembled in Idaho from parts from around the world, while others are made overseas. Models made in the USA include Outfitter, Lynx, Force, Super Lynx, Traveler kayaks. AIRE kayaks are all inflatable models, which mean they are typically lighter than conventional kayaks.
Width: 36 inches – 47 inches
Length: 9 feet 6 inches – 15 feet 1 inch
Weight: 32 lbs – 72 lbs
Capacity: 275 lbs – 800 lbs
Cost: $2,049.00 – $3,949.00
25. Reel Yaks
Reel Yaks makes some of its kayak models in the USA, although it’s not clear which ones. Most of their kayak models have a seat made for all day comfort and are either pedal or propeller driven. Some of their kayaks actually come in 2 large pieces, in order to make transport and storage easier. Reel Yaks are mainly made for fishing.
Don’t forget to also check out our posts on other outdoor products that are all made in the USA:
