Looking Beyond the Riot Kayaks Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable Kayak? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

Starcity 12'2" Inflatable Tandem Kayak

The Starcity 12'2" Tandem Inflatable Kayak is significantly longer than the Riot Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable, measuring 12 feet 2 inches in length. This extra length provides better tracking and speed for touring or river use compared to the Mako's 8-foot 9-inch hull. The Starcity is designed for tandem capacity, allowing two paddlers to share the load, whereas the Mako is a single-person boat. It features a scratch-resistant construction suitable for rugged shore use. You lose the pedal drive system found on the Mako, but gain ample storage space and durability for heavy tandem loads. Choose this if you prioritize shared trips and ruggedness over portability and pedal propulsion.

TIDETREK 10 ft Inflatable Touring Kayak

The TIDETREK 10 ft Inflatable Touring Kayak offers a longer 10-foot length compared to the Mako's 8-foot 9-inch design. It features a wider 40.9-inch beam, providing enhanced stability for solo fishing on calm lakes or rivers. The TIDETREK includes waterproof accessories, which the Mako does not specify. While the Mako uses an Impulse Pedal Drive for hands-free propulsion, the TIDETREK relies on traditional paddle power. The TIDETREK weighs 36.6 pounds, which is heavier than the Mako's implied portability. It is ideal for independent fishing trips where tracking and stability are more important than the precise steering and pedal efficiency of the Riot Mako.

Retrospec Coaster 12.5-Foot Tandem Inflatable Kayak

The Retrospec Coaster 12.5-Foot Tandem Inflatable Kayak is much longer at 12.5 feet than the Riot Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable. It is built for tandem capacity, accommodating two adults or pets, unlike the Mako's single-person design. The Coaster weighs 29 pounds and features a wide 39-inch beam for stability. It lacks the pedal drive and rudder system of the Mako, focusing instead on durability and included accessories for casual paddling. The Wild Spruce color and 13-inch height offer a different aesthetic and profile. Choose this alternative if you need a sturdy, high-capacity boat for lake trips with a partner or dog, and do not require the specialized fishing hardware or pedal propulsion of the Mako.

Bestway Hydro-Force Koracle X1 Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Bestway Hydro-Force Koracle X1 Inflatable Fishing Kayak is shorter at 9 feet 4 inches, close to the Mako's 8-foot 9-inch length. It offers high stability and weight capacity for solo anglers. The Koracle X1 weighs only 16.1 pounds, making it lighter and more portable than the Mako. It features a 4-inch display size, differing from the Mako's 9-inch display. The Koracle lacks the Impulse Pedal Drive and Pilot Rudder System, relying on paddle power. It is ideal for anglers who prioritize stability and portability over a rigid floor and advanced propulsion. If you want a lighter, simpler inflatable for solo fishing without the complexity of a pedal drive, this is a practical alternative.

BOTE Koda Aero 12' Inflatable Kayak

The BOTE Koda Aero 12' Inflatable Kayak is significantly longer at 12 feet than the Riot Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable. It is designed for single-person use, matching the Mako's capacity. The Koda Aero features a sit-inside design for a secure ride, whereas the Mako has a movable seat. It lacks the pedal drive and rudder system of the Mako, focusing on stability and easy transport. The Koda Aero is 36 inches wide, similar to the Mako. It is practical for calm water exploration without the bulk of a hard shell. Choose this if you value a stable, secure ride and portability for solo fishing, but do not need the specialized propulsion and steering features of the Mako.

HEYBOARD 12.5-Foot Inflatable Tandem Kayak

The HEYBOARD 12.5-Foot Inflatable Tandem Kayak is much longer at 12.5 feet than the Mako's 8-foot 9-inch hull. It is designed for tandem capacity, accommodating two people, unlike the Mako's single-person design. The HEYBOARD features a drop-stitch floor and a wide 36.5-inch beam for stability. It includes a rod holder and a portable transducer kit, which the Mako does not specify. The HEYBOARD weighs 35.3 pounds. It lacks the Impulse Pedal Drive and Pilot Rudder System of the Mako. It is ideal for stable tandem fishing and touring. Choose this if you need a solid platform for shared trips with fishing gear, and do not require the pedal propulsion and precise steering of the Riot Mako.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Riot Kayaks Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable

Best for: Solo fishing with pedal propulsion

Length

8 ft. 9 in.

Capacity

529 lb

Propulsion

Impulse Pedal Drive

Inflatable

Inflatable

Seat Type

Movable seat

Fishing Features

D-Rings on deck

View on Amazon: Riot Kayaks Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable

The Riot Kayaks Mako 8.5 Air is an inflatable kayak designed for fishing and recreation. It measures 8 feet 9 inches long and 36 inches wide, supporting a 529-pound capacity. Key features include an Impulse Pedal Drive with a reversible propeller and a Pilot Rudder System for precise steering. The movable seat and deck D-rings add comfort and utility for anglers.

Pros

• Impulse Pedal Drive with reversible propeller for efficient propulsion
• Pilot Rudder System with hand steering for precise control
• Movable seat for customizable comfort during long trips
• Deck-mounted D-rings for accessory attachment
• 529 lb weight capacity for gear and rider

Cons

• Single-person design limits tandem use
• Pedal drive system adds complexity compared to paddle-only models
• No integrated storage hatches mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You want pedal-assisted propulsion for easier paddling
• You need a stable platform for fishing gear
• You prefer a compact inflatable for easy storage

Skip if

• You require a tandem kayak for two riders
• You prefer traditional paddle propulsion over pedals
• You need a rigid hull for high-speed performance

Verdict: Riot Kayaks Mako 8.5 Air Inflatable is a solid choice for solo anglers who value pedal propulsion and precise steering. It fits buyers who prioritize stability and gear attachment points in a portable package.

2 Best budget

Starcity 12'2" Inflatable Tandem Kayak

Best for: heavy tandem loads and rugged shore use

Seating Style

Sit-on-top

Construction

Fabric-covered

Length

12 ft 2 in

Capacity

600 lb

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

View on Amazon: Starcity 12'2" Inflatable Tandem Kayak

The Starcity 12'2" is a 2-person inflatable kayak with a 600 lb capacity. It features fabric-covered construction for scratch resistance and a self-bailing design. You get two inflatable seats and floating paddles. The wide 36-inch hull offers stability for fishing or family trips on lakes and calm rivers. It suits those needing high weight limits and durable materials for extended outings.

Pros

• 600 lb weight capacity for tandem use
• Fabric-covered hull resists scratches and wear
• Self-bailing drain ports prevent water buildup
• Includes two floating 4-piece paddles

Cons

• No mention of a built-in track system for rod holders
• Heavy and bulky to transport compared to single-person models
• Lacks a rigid floor, which may feel less stable than hard shells

Good fit if

• You need a high weight capacity for gear or two adults
• You prioritize scratch resistance on rocky shorelines
• You want a stable platform for fishing or family paddling

Skip if

• You require a single-person kayak for easy solo transport
• You need a rigid hull for high-speed tracking
• You prefer a lightweight boat for frequent carrying

Verdict: Starcity 12'2" Tandem Inflatable Kayak fits paddlers who need a durable, high-capacity boat for shared trips. It is ideal for those who value scratch-resistant construction and ample storage space over portability.

3 Best waterproof

TIDETREK 10 ft Inflatable Touring Kayak

Best for: solo fishing on calm waters

Length

10 ft (147 inches)

Capacity

220 lb

Person Capacity

1 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Hull Type

Triple fin (1 center + 2 rear)

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: TIDETREK 10 ft Inflatable Touring Kayak

The TIDETREK inflatable touring kayak offers a 10-foot length and 41-inch width for stable paddling. It features a drop-stitch floor and triple fin tracking system for improved straight-line performance. With a 220-pound capacity and lightweight 36.6-pound design, it suits solo anglers. The included waterproof seat and backpack keep gear dry during lake or river trips.

Pros

• 10-foot length with 41-inch width for stability
• Triple fin system enhances tracking efficiency
• Drop-stitch floor provides solid rigidity
• Includes waterproof seat and heavy-duty backpack
• Lightweight 36.6-pound construction for easy transport

Cons

• Lower 220-pound weight capacity compared to tandem alternatives
• Single-person design limits group outings
• No mention of integrated gear tracks or rod holders

Good fit if

• You need a stable, lightweight kayak for solo fishing
• You value straight-line tracking on calm waters
• You prefer waterproof storage for your gear

Skip if

• You require seating for two or more people
• You need a higher weight capacity for heavy gear
• You prioritize built-in fishing accessories like rod holders

Verdict: TIDETREK Inflatable Kayak 1-Person 10ft is a solid choice for solo paddlers who prioritize stability and tracking on calm lakes or rivers. Its lightweight build and waterproof accessories make it practical for independent fishing trips.

4 Best premium

Retrospec Coaster 12.5-Foot Tandem Inflatable Kayak

Best for: tandem paddling and dog-friendly lake trips

Construction

600D Oxford fabric, tarpaulin hull

Length

12 ft 6 in

Capacity

440 lb

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: Retrospec Coaster 12.5-Foot Tandem Inflatable Kayak

The Retrospec Coaster is a 12-foot 6-inch inflatable tandem kayak built for two adults or one adult and a dog. It features 600-denier Oxford fabric and a tarpaulin hull for puncture resistance. With a 440-pound capacity and 29-pound weight, it balances portability with stability. The design includes snap-in seats and removable fins. It comes with paddles and a pump, making it ready for fishing or calm water recreation.

Pros

• High 440-pound weight capacity supports two adults
• Durable 600-denier Oxford fabric and tarpaulin hull
• Lightweight 29-pound build for easy transport
• Includes dual-action pump, paddles, and carry bag

Cons

• Fixed 13-inch height limits adjustability
• No mention of integrated gear tracks or rod holders
• Single air chamber design may be less redundant

Good fit if

• You need a stable platform for two riders
• You want a dog-friendly boat for lake outings
• You prefer a complete package with paddles included

Skip if

• You require a single-rider specific configuration
• You need advanced fishing features like rod holders
• You prefer a rigid hull for performance tracking

Verdict: Retrospec Coaster 12.5ft Tandem Inflatable Kayak offers a sturdy, high-capacity option for casual tandem paddling. It suits couples or those traveling with pets who prioritize durability and included accessories over specialized fishing hardware.

5 Best 4 inch

Bestway Hydro-Force Koracle X1 Inflatable Fishing Kayak

Best for: Solo anglers needing high stability and weight capacity

Construction

Inflata-Shield

Length

9 ft 4 in

Capacity

331 lbs

Person Capacity

1 angler

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

View on Amazon: Bestway Hydro-Force Koracle X1 Inflatable Fishing Kayak

The Bestway Hydro-Force Koracle X1 is a 9 ft. 4 in. inflatable kayak designed for one adult. It supports up to 331 lbs with a 36 in. width for stability. The hull uses Inflata-Shield material to resist punctures. It includes a built-in fishing rod holder and removable fins. This setup suits solo anglers who need a portable, stable platform for calm waters.

Pros

• High 331 lb weight capacity for solo use
• Built-in fishing rod holder for gear storage
• Inflata-Shield material resists punctures and stretching
• Two removable fins for directional support

Cons

• Single-person design limits tandem use
• No aluminum floor for a rigid base
• Inflatable backrest offers less support than hard seats

Good fit if

• You want a high weight capacity for gear
• You fish alone in calm waters
• You prefer a stable, wide hull

Skip if

• You need a tandem kayak for two people
• You require a rigid aluminum floor
• You want a hard-shell seat for long trips

Verdict: Bestway Koracle X1 9'4" Inflatable Fishing Kayak is a stable solo option with a high weight capacity. It fits anglers who prioritize stability and portability over a rigid floor.

6 Best single

BOTE Koda Aero 12' Inflatable Kayak

Best for: Solo fishing and calm water exploration

Seating Style

Sit-inside

Construction

Inflatable

Length

12 ft (144 inches)

Propulsion

Paddle

Inflatable

Inflatable

Fishing Features

MAGNEPod compatible

View on Amazon: BOTE Koda Aero 12' Inflatable Kayak

The BOTE Koda Aero is a 12-foot sit-inside inflatable kayak designed for single riders. It measures 36 inches wide and 11 inches tall, offering a stable platform for calm lakes and back bays. The hull supports MAGNEPod compatibility for gear mounting. You get a portable craft that packs down small for storage without roof racks. It suits paddlers who want a secure seating position for fishing or casual exploration.

Pros

• 12-foot length provides a smooth glide
• 36-inch width ensures stable handling
• Sit-inside design offers secure seating
• MAGNEPod compatible for gear mounting

Cons

• Single-person capacity limits group use
• Requires manual paddle propulsion only
• No included motor mount visible in specs

Good fit if

• You need a portable kayak for apartment storage
• You prefer a sit-inside seat for stability
• You want MAGNEPod gear mounting options

Skip if

• You require tandem seating for two people
• You need a motorized propulsion system
• You prefer an open-top sit-on-top design

Verdict: BOTE Koda Aero 12ft Inflatable fits solo anglers who value a stable, secure sit-inside ride and easy transport. It is a practical option for calm water exploration without the bulk of a hard shell.

7 Best travel

HEYBOARD 12.5-Foot Inflatable Tandem Kayak

Best for: stable tandem fishing and touring

Seating Style

Sit-in

Construction

Dual float tubes, drop-stitch floor

Length

12.5 ft (150 inches)

Person Capacity

2 person

Propulsion

Paddle

Hull Type

Dual fins

View on Amazon: HEYBOARD 12.5-Foot Inflatable Tandem Kayak

The HEYBOARD 12.5ft inflatable kayak offers a stable tandem platform for two adults. Its 36.5-inch width and dual float tubes provide balance for touring or fishing. The drop-stitch floor ensures stiffness while paddling. Weighing 35.3 pounds, it includes adjustable seats and a rod holder. This setup suits those seeking a portable, spacious vessel for shared water adventures.

Pros

• 12.5-foot length provides ample space for two paddlers
• 36.5-inch width enhances stability and balance
• Drop-stitch floor creates a rigid, trackable surface
• Includes a 360-degree adjustable rod holder for fishing

Cons

• 35.3-pound weight requires effort to transport
• No dedicated storage compartments listed in data
• Lacks a built-in paddle in the standard kit

Good fit if

• You need a stable tandem kayak for two adults
• You prioritize a wide, stable platform for fishing
• You want a portable inflatable for travel

Skip if

• You require a lightweight solo kayak under 30 pounds
• You need a rigid hull for high-speed performance
• You prefer a kayak with integrated storage hatches

Verdict: HEYBOARD 12.5ft 2-Person Inflatable Kayak fits tandem anglers who value stability and portability over lightweight ease. Its wide beam and drop-stitch floor deliver a solid platform for shared trips.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• air stone inflatable paddle board alternatives
• qlaway 8 5 electric scooter alternatives