Best UPWELL Kayaks: 3 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 3 picks

1 Best overall

UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Pedal Kayak

Best for: high capacity recreational paddling

Construction

0.55mm PVC, 1000D ripstop nylon cover

Length

13 ft 6 in

Capacity

650 lb

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Pedal Kayak Affiliate link

This 13'6" inflatable kayak weighs 32 lbs and supports up to 650 lbs. It features a 38" width and 0.55mm PVC construction with a 1000D nylon cover. The design suits one or two paddlers. You get a padded seat, aluminum paddles, and a hand pump. It rolls into a carry bag for storage. This model offers high capacity and durability for recreational use.

Pros

• 650 lb weight capacity
• 32 lb lightweight build
• Includes aluminum paddles and hand pump
• 0.55mm PVC with 1000D nylon cover

Cons

• 13'6" length is shorter than 14'6" competitors
• No pedal drive system included
• Single color option shown is Desert Sand

Good fit if

• You need high weight capacity for gear or pets
• You want a portable inflatable that fits in a trunk
• You prefer a stable 38" wide hull

Skip if

• You require a pedal drive system
• You need a longer 14'6" hull for speed
• You prefer hard-shell construction

Verdict: UPWELL 13'6" Inflatable Kayak offers exceptional weight capacity and portability for casual paddlers. It fits those prioritizing stability and easy storage over speed or pedal propulsion.

2 Best budget

UPWELL 14'6" Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Best for: Anglers needing space for two or three people

Construction

0.9mm PVC tarpaulin, seam welded

Length

14'6"

Capacity

700 lb

Person Capacity

2-3 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: UPWELL 14'6" Inflatable Fishing Kayak Affiliate link

The UPWELL Angler 14'6" is a 2-3 person inflatable fishing kayak weighing 40 lbs. It features a 700 lb capacity and a 0.9mm PVC tarpaulin hull with seam welding. Seven hard mounting points provide a stable fishing platform. This model suits anglers needing a spacious, portable craft for tandem trips or group outings on calm waters.

Pros

• 700 lb weight capacity supports 2-3 adults
• Seven universal hard mounting points for gear
• 0.9mm thick PVC tarpaulin with seam welding
• Includes two padded kayak seats

Cons

• Heavier at 40 lbs than single-person models
• Limited to two color options: Red or Blue
• No pedal drive system included in this version

Good fit if

• You need a high-capacity craft for two or three people
• You prioritize mounting points for fishing gear
• You want a durable, seam-welded inflatable hull

Skip if

• You require a single-person kayak for solo travel
• You need a pedal drive propulsion system
• You prefer a lighter craft under 30 lbs

Verdict: UPWELL Angler 14'6" Inflatable Kayak is a sturdy option for anglers who need space for two or three people and plenty of gear mounts. It fits those who value high weight capacity and durable construction over lightweight portability.

3 Also great

UPWELL 14'6" Inflatable 2-3 Person Fishing Kayak

Best for: Tandem fishing trips needing high stability

Construction

0.9mm PVC tarpaulin, seam welded

Length

14 ft 6 in

Capacity

700 lb

Person Capacity

2-3 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: UPWELL 14'6" Inflatable 2-3 Person Fishing Kayak Affiliate link

This 14'6" inflatable kayak offers a 46" width and 700 lb capacity for two to three people. It features a 0.9mm PVC tarpaulin hull with drop stitch construction for stability. The design includes seven mounting points for gear and two padded seats. You get aluminum paddles and a hand pump included. It suits anglers needing a stable, high-capacity platform for tandem fishing trips.

Pros

• 700 lb weight capacity supports two to three adults
• 14'6" length and 46" width provide a stable platform
• Seven universal hard mounting points for fishing gear
• Includes aluminum paddles and hand pump for immediate use

Cons

• Manual hand pump included, no electric pump option listed
• Heavier 40 lb build compared to solo models
• No pedal drive system included in the base package

Good fit if

• You need a stable platform for tandem fishing
• You want high weight capacity for gear and passengers
• You prefer a stable, wide hull for calm waters

Skip if

• You require a lightweight solo kayak under 30 lbs
• You need a built-in pedal drive system
• You want an electric pump for quick inflation

Verdict: UPWELL 14'6" Angler Inflatable Kayak fits anglers who prioritize stability and capacity for tandem trips over solo portability. Its wide hull and mounting options make it a solid choice for shared fishing adventures.

Specifications side by side

UPWELL Kayak Models Compared

The UPWELL lineup focuses on inflatable pedal boats designed for stability and high capacity. These kayaks use drop stitch construction to maintain shape while offering easy storage. You can choose between models sized for two or three people, all featuring integrated pedal drive systems for hands-free propulsion. This setup suits paddlers who prioritize comfort and gear space over speed or solo portability. The widest hulls provide excellent stability for tandem fishing trips or group outings on calm waters. You get a sturdy platform that handles multiple passengers without compromising balance. This design philosophy appeals to recreational users who need reliable transport for gear and friends. The consistent use of pedal drives means you can navigate efficiently while keeping your hands free for fishing or photography tasks during your outings.

Who UPWELL Kayaks Suit Best

UPWELL’s range targets paddlers who need high capacity and stability without the bulk of hard-shell boats. The lineup spans from the 13'6" model to the 14'6" Angler variants. All three options use drop stitch inflatable construction and pedal drive propulsion. You will find widths ranging from 38 to 46 inches, accommodating two or three people. The range does not include single-person models or sit-on-top designs. There are no outriggers or solar lighting options listed. This brand suits groups prioritizing gear space and easy storage over solo maneuverability or racing speed.

Choosing the Right UPWELL Kayak

1. Check person capacity

   Your seating needs dictate the hull size. The UPWELL 13'6" model supports two people, making it ideal for couples or friends sharing a ride. If you require space for three individuals, consider the 14'6" Angler variants. These larger boats accommodate more passengers and gear. Verify the person capacity on the listing. This number determines how much weight the inflatable structure can safely hold while maintaining stability on the water. Higher capacity models offer more room but may be heavier to transport.

2. Compare width for stability

   Width directly impacts how stable the kayak feels in the water. Wider hulls provide better balance for beginners or those carrying heavy fishing gear. The 14'6" models feature a 46-inch width, offering a broad platform for standing or moving around. The 13'6" model is narrower at 38 inches. Choose the wider option if you prioritize steadiness over speed. A wider base reduces tipping risks but can slow down your paddle stroke. Match the width to your comfort level on the water.

3. Evaluate pedal drive systems

   All UPWELL models in this list include pedal drive propulsion. This feature allows you to move your hands freely for fishing or photography. You pedal with your feet to move forward. Check if the drive is included or sold separately. Pedal drives improve efficiency on long paddles. They also reduce fatigue compared to traditional hand paddling. Ensure the drive mechanism fits your preferred seating position. This propulsion method is key for anglers who need hands-free operation.

4. Assess drop stitch construction

   Drop stitch construction keeps the inflatable hull rigid and flat. This technology connects the top and bottom layers with thousands of threads. It mimics the stability of a hard-shell kayak. All listed models use this durable material. It prevents the floor from sagging under weight. This construction type also enhances tracking and speed. Verify that the material is thick enough for your intended use. Drop stitch ensures the boat holds its shape and provides a solid standing platform.

5. Review weight for portability

   Inflatable kayaks are lighter than hard shells, but weight still matters for transport. The 13'6" model weighs 32 pounds, making it easier for one person to carry. The 14'6" Angler model weighs 40 pounds due to its larger size and features. Consider how you will store and move the kayak. Heavier models require more effort to load into a vehicle. Lighter options offer better portability for solo adventurers. Check the weight spec to ensure it fits your physical capabilities and storage setup.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• upwell 13 6 inflatable kayak vs angler 14 6 inflatable fishing kayak
• upwell 13 6 inflatable pedal kayak vs 14 6 inflatable fishing kayak
• best UPWELL fishing kayaks
• best trolling motors for kayak