Home >> Kayak Types >> Lightweight Kayaks

Lightweight Kayaks

Lightweight kayaks available to purchase in the UK from Manchester Canoes

One drawback to sit inside, rigid kayaks is in their weight. Often, they are unwieldy on dry land and can be tricky to carry, transport and lift onto a car roof-rack system. Some kayak brands design and manufacture lightweight kayaks that weigh considerably less than their plastic counterparts (often reducing the weight by more than 50 % on equivalent sized models).


The downside to lightweight kayaks is that they are usually less robust than heavier plastic kayaks and may need to be repaired if they collide with hidden rocks or are dropped onto a hard surface. However, by utilising modern materials such as carbon-fibre, nitrilon or kevlar these kayaks are a dream to lift and carry, and paddle exceptionally well whilst on the water.


Below is a selection of our top-selling lightweight kayaks (all under 20kg) and are arranged in weight order (lightest at the top). If you have any questions or would like any help or advice choosing your new lightweight kayak, please Contact Us for more information.

Gumotext Twist 1 inflatable kayak

Gumotex Twist 1 (9.0kg)

A one-person, durable sit-on-top inflatable kayak that packs down to the size of a regular briefcase. Designed for calm, sheltered waters.

£549.00
£499.00
Swift Adirondack 10LT

Swift Adirondack 10LT (9.97kg)

A high-performing, stable touring composite kayak, designed for beginners to intermediates. Features an oversized, easy-access cockpit.

Prices From: £2,695.00

Gumotex Swing 1 inflatable kayak

Gumotex Swing 1 (11.3kg)

A closed cockpit inflatable kayak that can be inflated and set-up in under 10 minutes. Can be used in conjunction with a nylon sprayskirt.

£829.00
£749.00
Gumotex Twist 2 tandem inflatable kayak

Gumotex Twist 2 (13kg)

A 2-person inflatable manufactured from robust Nitrilon material. The seat configuration can be set up so it can be used by one paddler.

£699.00
£579.00
Riot Escape 9 Sit On Top Kayaks

Riot Escape 9 Package (14.5kg)

A light sit-on-top rigid kayak, manufactured from roto-moulded polyethylene. Designed for smaller paddlers (under 80kg in weight).

£379.00
£299.00
Swift Adirondack 12

Swift Adirondack 12 (15.4kg)

The longer version of the 10 LT makes for a faster, more efficient kayak. However, it keeps the X-Large cockpit and stable hull shape.

Prices From: £2,995.00

Riot Quest 9.5 recreational touring kayak

Riot Quest 9.5 (17.8kg)

A very stable, lightweight plastic kayak, designed for smaller, shorter paddlers. Easy to learn in, so perfect for total novices.

£479.00
£299.00

Old Town Heron 9 XT (18.1kg)

Manufactured in the state of Maine, the 9XT is a compact, polyethylene touring kayak with a very comfortable seating system.

£699.00
Swift Saranac 15

Swift Saranac 15 (18.4kg)

The longest of Swifts performance composite touring/sea kayaks for taller paddlers. Fitted with 2x watertight hatches, and skeg.

Prices From: £3,600.00

Norse Kayaks Idun

Norse Kayaks Idun (20kg carbon lay up)

A true sea kayak, and at nearly 16ft in length is very efficient, even on choppy water. Suitable for more experienced sea kayakers.

£2,799.00

If are looking for a sea kayak that is not listed above then click here to email us or Contact us by telephone on 01925 818437