Best Emotion Kayaks Reviewed & Rated for Quality
MaggieT 
Dan Novak Kayaks are some of the most versatile and diverse personal watercraft on the market today. You’ve got kayaks for one and for two (tandem). Ones that you sit on top and ones that you sit inside. Plus, there are even options that are designed specifically for fishing. So with a ton of different brands and styles on the market, it may seem a daunting task to make the right selection. But that’s where Emotion Kayaks come in.
Emotion Kayaks realized what a challenge it was to navigate the market and how confusing the selection process could be, so they decided to put an end to that once and for all. Their mission is a simple one: present a line of kayaks that is just that--simple--and, of course, well made.
We’ve made this list to highlight the best Emotion Kayaks on the market today for whatever water is calling your name.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 14 hrs of research
Comes with multiple molded-in footrests
Drywell storage in the front
Easy-carry handles at front, back, sides
Great for various water types
Great stability and maneuverability
10 Best Emotion Kayaks
1. Temptation Sit-On-Top
Comes with multiple molded-in footrests
Drywell storage in the front
Easy-carry handles at front, back, sides
Great for various water types
Great stability and maneuverability
No bottom seat padding
We kick off our list with the Temptation Sit-On-Top Kayak. This is a great one-seater option that is ideal for family use, for fishing, and for general recreation. This boat will perform well on lakes and ponds, as well as on flat rivers, bays, and even calm seas. It measures 10 feet, 3 inches long and provides great stability and nice maneuverability as well.
The polyurethane body has been UV-treated so as not to crack when exposed to the elements, and the shape of the body lends to its tracking and stability in the water. The body comes with a 5-year warranty.
Comfort Rest Seating System
The Emotion Temptation Sit-On-Top is loaded with features that make it a great and comfortable companion for the water.
With CRS, or Comfort Rest Seating System, you’ll be able to stay on the water for hours without experiencing discomfort in your seat. The seat is molded in and the seatback folds up and down while having two-strap anchors for extra security. The seatback can be removed altogether if desired.
This model includes molded-in footwells. There are 5 different footwell positions so it can accommodate users of many different heights.
The boat features easy-carry handles on either side of the boat and at the front and the rear. At 49 pounds, this boat can be managed by an average-sized adult.
Drywell Storage in Front
The Emotion Temptation Sit-On-Top features tons of storage that will ensure no necessary items are left behind when you head offshore for the day. In the front, you’ll find an 8-inch hatch that allows you to store items inside of the boat. At the rear of the boat, you'll find a large tankwell that has netted lacing for even more open storage.
You’ll enjoy not one, but 2 paddle keepers on either side of the boat.
Cost and Value
The Emotion Temptation Sit-On-Top rings up in the high middle of our price range and we love its value because it is a super versatile kayak that will perform well in a variety of situations. It is also ideal for users of different heights. Plus, with a 5-year warranty, you know you’re making a purchase that you can count on.
2. Glide
Adjustable seatback
Adjustable foot braces
Super lightweight and easy to carry
Great stability and maneuverability
Good for a variety of water types
A paddle is not included
The next on our list is the Glide Kayak. This is a craft for one person and is a sit-inside kayak, so your legs will be inside of the body of the boat. A kayak like this is ideal for fishing and for family use and recreation. It will function well in lakes, ponds, and smooth rivers. It’s even great in harbors. It is 9 feet, 7 inches long and measures 28 inches wide.
Adjustable Seating and Footbraces
The Emotion Glide features adjustable seating and foot braces to ensure that each passenger gets the just-right fit and positioning for them. The back and base of the seat are cushioned, and the seatback can be adjusted using the security straps on either side. When not in use, the seat folds flat so it is easy to transport.
It is best to adjust the foot braces while you are still on dry land. Sit in the seat and determine the best foot positioning for leverage. Then adjust using the straps. Of course, if you need to adjust while in the water that is totally possible, but it will just be a bit more challenging and might compromise your stability while doing so.
Lightweight Body and Unique Design
The Emotion Glide has a unique design that makes it an ideal craft for novices and experienced users alike. The V shape of the hull offers up a lot of secondary stability and enables better tracking as well. The boat comes with a stern flotation bag that works to limit the amount of water that can enter the boat.
The boat only weighs 37 pounds, so it is as easy to navigate outside of the water as it is on the water. It has T handles at the front and rear to easy in carrying as well as loading and unloading.
With a paddle keeper on the ledge of the boat, you can switch from paddling to having free hands in a jiffy. There is bungee storage in the back and front of the boat, though it is minimal.
Cost and Value
The Emotion Glide rings up at the very top of our price range and we love its value because it is an incredibly fun option that can be enjoyed by people of all sizes and by the whole family. While it is pricey, it a great kayak to learn and develop with so it will get years of good use.
3. Tandem Spitfire
A best value for 2 people
Full comforts for both passengers
Ample storage at the front, rear, and inside
Adjustable seatbacks
Multiple footing options
Water can leak into hatch
The Tandem Spitfire is our favorite of the Emotion tandem kayaks. Tandem kayaks are a great way to hit the water with a loved one or friend--even those friends with fur! Because they are longer (12 feet long and 35 inches wide), they function well in the ocean as well as on smoother water.
This kayak can hold up to 500 pounds of combined passenger weight and cargo.
Scupper Holes are Self-Bailing
Since it’s possible that you may be taking the Emotion Tandem Spitfire out on choppier waters, it’s important that the boat have scupper holes. These are holes in the front and rear of the boat that allows water to escape so that dangerous amounts of water don’t build up in the boat. The holes drain themselves to keep you safe.
Comforts for Two
While some tandem boats offer more comfort to one passenger than they do the other, this boat is pretty evenly distributed in terms of comfort. Each of the seats has padded backs that are easily adjustable and that can lay flat. The base of the seats is molded in.
Each passenger will enjoy 4 molded-in footrests that can accommodate users of many different heights. Plus, there is a paddle keeper for each paddler as well located on the side of the boat.
There is a good deal of storage on this craft. There is a small bungee storage area in the front and a larger netted storage area in the rear. Plus, there is a solace hatch for storing items inside of the boat.
The boat does weigh 90 pounds so it will likely be a two-person carry job, but 4 handles (1 each at the front, rear, and on either side) make the job a little bit easier. Oh wait! We forgot to mention that there is a rolling skeg wheel at the back of this kayak making it easy for one person to roll to the water. The wheel can handle rocky terrain and even sand.
Cost and Value
The Tandem Spitfire rings up in the middle of our price range and we love its value because it is the most cost-efficient option if you are looking for new water wheels for 2 people. It is more inexpensive than purchasing two individual kayaks and you will get to spend more quality time with your friend or loved one as well. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty.
4. Stealth Pro Angler
Comes with amazing adjustable seat
Tons of storage
Tons of gear tracks for extra accessories
Comes with 2 tackle boxes and rod holders
Provides nice stability while standing
Reeling heavy fish while standing difficult
The Stealth Pro Angler is our favorite of the Emotion fishing kayaks. This mac daddy of fishing kayaks is 11 and a half feet long and 32 inches wide. It weighs 86 pounds so it presents a ton of stability (even without having kayak stabilizers) while fishing.
This beauty comes in two different color options: Gators Camo and Trooper Camo (pictured).
Great Stability
The Stealth Pro Angler was designed with one thing in mind: angling successfully on open waters. The tunnel hull allows you to slice through waters with great speed while also giving you a good deal of tracking control at the same time.
The hull also offers up a ton of initial stability which enables the angler to stand comfortably in the raft while casting a line.
Because some wobbling and inclement weather may occur, there is a full deck draining system with channels and a whopping 7 scupper holes that are self-draining.
Holy Gear Options!
Okay. Let’s just start with the seating options here. On this craft, you’ll enjoy a real seat with webbing and padding stretched over a frame for added security and comfort. The seat can be adjusted to 3 different settings. The first setting is high and is intended for fishing, the second setting is low and is intended for paddling, and the third setting is reclined for, well, kicking back.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, folks. The back of the seat is adjustable and the boat also features fully adjustable foot braces to accommodate an angler of any height.
You’ll be ready to hit the waters right away because you will get two tackle boxes (Flambeau) and 2 installed rod holders (flush mount) with your purchase. There are 2 paddle holders, one on either side of the boat as well, so you can keep your favorite paddle close at hand.
But if you needed more gear than that, never you fear. There are 6--yes 6--foot long sections of universal GearTrac made by YakAttack for you to install any of the extra gear pieces and accessories that you require.
You’ll also enjoy rear bungee storage and an oval hatch in the front that is resistant to water and sealed with a rubber lid.
Cost and Value
The Stealth Pro Angler rings up at the top of our price range and we love its value because it literally has everything you could possibly need for a successful day fishing out on the water. Plus, comfort and stability rein king here.
5. Guster Sit-Inside
Comes with fully adjustable footing
Back and seat pads
3 places to rest paddle
Front, rear, and internal storage
Comes in great color options
Not as fast as others
The Guster Sit-Inside is another great option for rec time with the fam or for fishing. It’ll operate ideally on lakes, ponds, and rivers. It measures 10 feet long (and 30 inches wide) and has a weight capacity of 275 pounds.
This boat comes in 3 great color options: hot pink, bright orange, and volcano (pictured).
Padded Seat Back and Bottom
The Guster Sit-Inside features some extra comfortable seating, even at its more affordable price point. Not only is the adjustable back of the seat padded, but the base of the sea is padded as well for long-lasting comfort. The seat has the ability to fold down all the way.
The rider will enjoy paddle docks on either side of the boat and one paddle holder on the right side of the boat. There’s also a handy little cupholder between the seat on this model.
The footrests are fully adjustable and can support tall and short riders alike.
This boat offers great tracking and stability, and foam blocks that are built into the boat may it even more buoyant.
Easy to Transport
The Guster Sit-Inside features a boatload (get it?) of storage. There is bungee storage at the front and at the rear of the boat. At the rear, there is also an oval hatch that allows you to stow items below the deck.
The boat has T handles at the front and rear to make transport (especially with 2 people) of this 49-pound craft much easier.
Cost and Value
The Guster Sit-Inside rings up on the lower end of our price range and we love its value because it offers many of the same features as the Emotion Glide Kayak at about half the price. This is a great introductory boat that will provide stability while learning the ropes.
6. Spitfire Sit-On-Top
Comes with storage hatch
Adjustable and padded seat
4 molded-in footrests
Handles make carrying easy
Scuppers are self-bailing
Can tip over pretty easily
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top is one of the most affordable options on our list by far and we love it. This boat is great for calmer waters like ponds and lakes but will do fine on flat rivers as well. This is a good starter kayak for younger paddlers and beginners, but can be enjoyed by all ability levels.
Nice Padded Seating
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top features a simple design but it does have some nice padded seating. The back and the built-in seat base are both padded. The back of the seat can be easily adjusted to fit each user’s needs.
There are 4 molded-in foot placements so that kayakers of different heights can get the traction and leverage that they need for ergonomic and effective paddling.
In the cockpit and hull, there are scuppers that are self-bailing to train excess water so that the boat doesn’t take on too much.
There’s a good deal of storage at the front and rear with bungees. There’s an additional storage hatch in front of the seat for storage under deck as well.
Molded-In Handles to Ease Transport
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top is 9 feet long and 31 inches wide. It is made from high-density, UV-protection treated polyethylene which aids in tracking and stability. With molded-in paddle holders and handles, it is easy to manage this 45-pound boat in and out of the water. There are additional handles at the front and rear of the boat to help in transport as well.
Cost and Value
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top rings up at the bottom of our price range and we love its value because it is a great introductory kayak for those who are trying out the activity for the first time.
7. Stealth Angler
Comes with 3 rod holders
Lots of storage space for gear
More affordable than Pro Angler
Skeg wheel for ease in transport
Multiple foot positions
Seating not super comfortable
The Stealth Angler is a more affordable and more simplified version of the Emotion Stealth Pro Angler, but it still has a ton to offer. The longer body and the design of the hull help to make this craft sturdy enough to successfully fish on, and the tracking performance is not too shabby either.
Skeg Wheel for Ease in Transport
Though this boat has a longer body (11 feet long and 30 inches wide) and weighs in at 58 pounds, it comes complete with a handy little skeg wheel. This wheel allows you to roll the back of the boat on the ground while holding onto the front for easy transport. And the skeg itself helps to maximize tracking on this craft.
For added ease in transport, there are handles on the front and back of the boat, as well as on either side.
This boat has a weight capacity of 300 pounds (including gear). To store that gear, there are bungee storage areas in the front and in the read (the rear features extra netting) and there is also a hatch in front of the seat for storing items below deck.
This boat is made of UV-Protected HDPE which guarantees not to crack or warp with exposure to the sun.
3 Rod Holders
The Stealth Angler comes with 3 rod holders on board. 2 of the rod holders are flush mounted and one is deck mounted. The flush-mounted rods are on directly behind the seat and the deck mounted rod holder is in front of the seat.
The back and base of the seat are padded and the seatback is totally adjustable. There are 4 molded-in foot grips to accommodate anglers of different heights.
Cost and Value
The Stealth Angler rings up in the middle of our price range and we love its value because it’s a more affordable (and more slimmed-down) version of the Emotion Stealth Pro Angler. It provides a more straightforward approach to kayak fishing. It comes with a 5-year warranty.
8. Renegade XT
Comes with 2 rod holders
Molded-in handles for ease in transport
Molded-in footrests for leverage
Large tankwell for more storage options
Wider for more stability
Spins easily in the water
The Renegade XT is another simplified fishing kayak on our list. While it doesn’t come with tons of bells and whistles, it does have an increased weight capacity (compared to the last kayak on our list) and can hold 325 pounds of passengers and gear.
Wider for More Stability
The Renegade XT measures in at 12 feet long and 36 inches wide (about 6 inches wider than the last item on our list). This serves to make the craft more sturdy and less likely to tip over.
With a larger rear tankwell, you can attach a milk crate, a cooler, or even give a lift to a small child or one of your furry friends. There is additional bungee storage in the front and an extra storage hatch in front of the seat for storing items inside of the boat.
Molded-In Handles for Carrying Ease
The Renegade XT weighs in at 49 pounds so it is still maneuverable by one average adult. The boat comes with 2 molded-in handles at the rear and one molded-in handle on either side of the boat. There is an additional handle at the front.
The seat is fully adjustable and features padding at the base and on the backrest.
There are 4 molded-in footing positions so that anglers of different heights can get the best leverage possible.
You will find 2 flush-mounted rod holders behind the seat.
Cost and Value
The Renegade XT rings up in the high middle of our price range and we like its value because it’s a heavier duty boat that can handle more gear, but that still doesn’t come with all the extra bells and whistles that the Pro Angler comes with and that some fisherman simply don’t require.
9. Spitfire Sit-On-Top
Super inexpensive
Molded-in foot wells
Molded-in cup holder and paddle rests
Adjustable seat back padding
Cargo netted tankwell storage
Tips over in heavy wake
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top is one of the smallest kayaks on our list measuring in at just 8 feet long. It has a weight capacity of 240 pounds and weighs in at just 40 pounds. It is ideal for calm rivers and other calm bodies of water.
Cargo Net on Tankwell
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top has some features that are usually reserved for more expensive kayaks. You will still find the cargo net over the tankwell storage area for extra security as well as adjustable seating with a padded back. The seat itself is molded in without a pad.
Molded-In Handles and Foot Wells
It features tons of molded-in conveniences. There are 4 molded-in footwells for yakers of different heights. There are also molded-in handles on either side of the boat to ease in transport (plus T handles at the front and back).
You’ll also enjoy a molded-in cupholder and molded-in paddle rest on either side of the craft.
Cost and Value
The Spitfire Sit-On-Top rings up at the very bottom of our price range and we love its value because it still boasts some convenient features and is durably made without breaking the bank. This makes it a great introductory kayak for those who are just getting their toes wet.
10. Sparky Youth
Modeled after adult versions
4 molded-in footwells
Molded-in handles
Great for 5 years and up
Holds 140 lbs and weighs 22 lbs
No seatback
The Sparky Youth was designed with kids in mind. This craft is meant for kids who are 5 years of age and older. The maximum amount of weight it can support is 140 pounds.
Scupper Holes
This craft has scupper holes that are self-bailing so the boat will not fill up with water. There is a bit of rear storage in the back. This unit comes with a paddle.
This boat only weighs 22 pounds.
4 Different Foot Wells
The Sparky Youth features the same number of footwells as the adult Emotion kayaks at 4 so it really is great for all ages 5 and up. There are molded-in handles and T handles at the front and rear. You’ll also enjoy a molded-in cup holder.
Cost and Value
The Sparky Youth rings up at the very bottom of our price range and we love its value because it is a great starter kayak for young yakers, but still provides stability and features of full-sized adult crafts.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
We highlight the unique features of each craft, though many share the same great features. Some of the shared features we love are molded-in footwells and ample storage, as well as paddle rests and handles for easy carrying.
Comfort
We like to highlight the seating situation because comfort is key for long days on the water.
Size
Size has a lot to do with how well a kayak will do in different types of water so we make sure we draw your attention to the specs of each kayak.
Capacity
Capacity is another key player because it is important to consider your own weight, plus the potential weight of the gear you will be taking along with you.
Value
We work to highlight the similar qualities of less expensive boats that are present in premium models so that you can get the boat that fits your specific needs--not one with more expensive frills that you won’t end up using.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Features Comfort Size Capacity Value
Anytime you are hitting the water, it is important that you or someone you are with knows the ins and outs of that body of water. You don’t want to find yourself getting swept up in a current or hitting unexpected rapids.
Tandems can seem like a 2-for-1 deal as they sit two riders for less than the price of 2 separate kayaks. But if you and your partner are the super adventurous types, you will likely find that this boat holds you back and should go with individual kayaks instead.
Other Factors to Consider
Stability
This is an important consideration for which water type each kayak is ideal for and whether or not you can successfully fish out of the craft.
Style
We know it’s not a fashion show, but we still like highlighting the vibrant colors and unique designs of these crafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How do I know which kayak is the right kayak for me?
Even with Emotion Kayak’s simplified brand structure, there are still some things you need to know before making your purchase.
First, you need to think about the kayaking you will be doing. Here are some questions to guide you:
Do you plan on hitting the open ocean or will you be sticking to calm lakes and ponds?
If you plan on using your craft in the ocean, you will need to make sure that she is at least 14 feet long. The reason for this is quite simple. The longer the boat, the more stable it is, and you will need that stability especially if you are hitting open waters that are bound to be more choppy.
Sea kayaks can be as long as 20 feet, and these are the best (along with longer sit on top kayaks) for use on the open ocean.
If lakes and ponds are in your future, you have a few more options. Here with calmer waters, you don’t need as long of a boat. A sit on top or a sit-inside kayak will do you just fine.
If you are going to be kayaking rivers, are there whitewater rapids you will encounter?
While calmer rivers call for sit on top or sit inside kayaks, you’re going to want a kayak that is specifically designed for white water rafting if you plan on hitting rapids. These are similar to sit inside kayaks in that your legs will be inside the kayak, but the shape of the body of the boat is different and will ensure better safety.
Is your kayak for casual days on the water or do you plan on taking her fishing?
While you do not have to purchase a boat that is designed specifically for fishing or angling to have a successful day fishing on the water (a regular sit on top and sit inside kayak can be great for this), there are major benefits to going with angling kayak.
These specialized kayaks are outfitted with gear and gadgets to make your day on the water easier. They usually feature better seating, more storage space, more width for greater stability, and rod holders for convenience.
q: Can a child use an adult kayak?
Depending on the age and height of the child, it may be a challenge for them to steer successfully (the younger and shorter they are). Working up to a tandem first is a great idea.
q: Do paddles come with these kayaks?
Unfortunately, most of the kayaks on our list do not come with paddles. That being said, the youth kayak that we feature at number 10 on our list does come with a paddle.
Sources
- , Different Types of Kayaks, Artilce
- , What Size Kayak Do I Need? Your Guide To Kayak Sizes & Lengths, Artilcle
- , What Are Scupper Plugs?, Article
