Best kayak brands in canada & Top Kayak Manufacturers

What kayaks are made in Canada?

Canada is a haven for kayaking enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of water bodies and breathtaking landscapes to explore. From kayaking in the majestic Rocky Mountains to gliding along the stunning coastline, there’s no shortage of options for adventure seekers.

The kayak industry in Canada has grown tremendously in response to the increasing demand for kayaking. Many brands have emerged, offering a variety of kayaks to meet different needs. Some of the most prominent Canadian kayak brands include Pelican, Old Town, and Oru Kayak, among others.

This guide will delve into each brand’s history, production process, popular models, and unique features. Choosing the right Canadian kayak brand is vital to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned kayaker.

In addition to discussing the various Canadian kayak brands, we’ll also highlight the benefits of selecting a Canadian kayak manufacturer. With years of experience, quality craftsmanship, and innovative designs, Canadian kayak brands offer some of the best kayaking equipment on the market.

Whether you’re looking for a fishing kayak in Ontario or a tandem kayak in Montreal, this guide has got you covered. With our comprehensive coverage of the top Canadian kayak brands and models, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the perfect kayak for your needs and preferences.

Canada is known for manufacturing a wide range of kayaks, canoes, paddles, and other safety gear and equipment. Many of these brands produce world-class products that are highly sought after by kayaking enthusiasts. Some of the most prominent Canadian kayak and canoe manufacturers include:

Pelican Kayaks: Pelican is a leading manufacturer of recreational kayaks in Canada. They offer a wide range of kayaks, including sit-in and sit-on-top models, fishing kayaks, and touring kayaks.

Old Town Kayaks: Old Town is a renowned manufacturer of canoes and kayaks. Their products are popular among outdoor enthusiasts for their durability, quality, and performance.

Oru Kayak: Oru is a unique brand that specializes in producing foldable kayaks. Their kayaks are lightweight, portable, and easy to store, making them a popular choice for travelers and outdoor adventurers.

Advanced Elements Kayaks: Advanced Elements is a leading manufacturer of inflatable kayaks. Their products are durable, easy to transport, and ideal for those who don’t have a lot of storage space.

Perception Kayaks: Perception is a popular brand that produces high-quality kayaks for both recreational and professional use. They offer a range of kayaks, including sit-in and sit-on-top models, fishing kayaks, and touring kayaks.

Hobie Kayaks: Hobie is a renowned brand that produces kayaks with unique pedal-driven systems. Their kayaks are popular among fishing enthusiasts as they allow for hands-free fishing.

AquaGlide: AquaGlide is a Canadian brand that specializes in producing inflatable kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment. Their products are durable, high-quality, and ideal for those who enjoy water sports.

These are just a few of the many Canadian kayak and canoe manufacturers that offer world-class products. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there’s a Canadian brand out there that can meet your needs and preferences.
Also these are some:

Cabelas Kayak Review

Top Kayak Manufacturers In Canada.

• Paluski Boats
• Seaward Kayaks
• Souris River Canoes
• Fletcher Canoes
• Lone pine Canoe
• Kiwi kayaks
• Backcountry Custom Canoes
• Delta kayaks

There are also some International kayaking Brands that manufectures kayak in Canada.Some of these brands are:

• Pelican International Inc.
• Perception kayak.
• Advanced Element kayak
• Riot kayak
• Swift Canoe & Kayak

How to choose the best kayak

Paluski Boats:

Paluski boats, a Canadian-owned brand, has been manufacturing top-quality canoes, kayaks, and paddles for over 50 years in Lakefield, Ontario.

The brand offers a range of watercraft, from the versatile Canoe. Paluski boats also offers a range of paddles, including the Canoe Paddle for Juniors, Kids, Standard Canoe Paddle, and Paddle | Ducky Kayak Paddle, as well as touring and stand-up paddleboard paddles.

The brand’s attention to detail and use of top-quality materials make their products reliable, durable, and built to withstand Canadian waterways’ rugged conditions.

Whether you’re looking to explore calm lakes, navigate rapids, or fish in rivers, Paluski boats has a kayak or canoe to meet your needs. Their products offer stability, maneuverability, and ease of use, making them suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers.

If you’re looking to purchase a Paluski boat, their products are available for purchase online, and the brand has a loyal following among Canadian outdoor enthusiasts.

The brand’s dedication to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship have earned them a reputation as a trusted name in the Canadian paddling community.

With their wide range of products and commitment to customer satisfaction, Paluski boats are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality watercraft.

Some products of Paluski brands are given below.

Paluski Canoes:

• 12’6 Square Stern
• 16’4 Passage Canoe
• 14′ Adirondack Canoe

Paluski Kayak:

• 10′ Ripple Kayak
• 13′ Spirit Kayak

Paluski paddle:

• Kids,Standard Canoe Paddle
• Ducky Kayak Paddle
• Touring Kayak Paddle
• Standard kayak paddle
• Stand Up Paddle
• SUPs
• Rufting Paddle
• Junior kayak paddle
• Aluminium Oars

12’6 Square Stern:

The 14-foot Adirondack shares a single keel and a wide, flat hull with the square-stern canoe.

There is room for a small trolling motor in the stern transom (max 4hp). A center seat and oar locks on the gunwales are included as standard features with the Square Stern Canoe, allowing you to use either oars or paddles.

Specifications:

• Length: 16′ 4″”
• Width: 37.5″”
• Depth: 18″
• Weight: 78 lbs
• Capacity: 950 lb

16’4 Passage Canoe:

The ideal canoe for families is the Paluski Passage.The 16’4″ hull is deep enough at 18″ in the center to be safe in the roughest seas and wide enough at 39″ to be stable for even the most inexperienced paddler.

The canoe’s stiffness and durability are ensured by its high density polyethelene laminated hull, nylon gunwales, and stainless steel hardware, with additional material added to the high wear areas along the keel.

The Passage has a very slight V hull, making it easy for beginners to handle in all kinds of water conditions while still tracking straight. Seats made of sturdy extrusion are the norm. It is suitable for families and the rental sector due to its large capacity. Red, yellow, or green are your options.

16′ 4″L x 39″ W x 17″ D

Weight: 80 lbs

Capacity: 950 lbs

14′ Adirondack Canoe:

The 14′ Adirondack Canoe is a popular model manufactured by Swift Canoe & Kayak, one of the leading Canadian kayak brands.

This canoe is designed with a graceful hull shape and a symmetrical profile, making it ideal for paddling on lakes and rivers. The 14′ Adirondack Canoe has a lightweight construction, weighing only 44 lbs, which makes it easy to transport and maneuver.

Its comfortable and adjustable seats provide added comfort for extended paddling trips.

This model is also equipped with a built-in yoke, which makes it easier to carry the canoe overland between waterways.

The 14′ Adirondack Canoe is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, durable, and high-performance canoe that is suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers.

10′ Ripple Kayak:

Comfortable, Basic Touring, The ripple kayak is adaptable, good for beginners, and made for carrying gear and long distances.

With one of the largest cockpits in the business (48″ x 18.5″), The Ripple, our most stable kayak, has the open feel of a sit-on-top kayak without sacrificing the comfortable seat or secure enclosure for three-season paddling.

Compared to most kayaks, the cockpit is deeper, which will keep you dry in windy conditions or from motorboat wakes.

This boat’s spacious back hatch provides storage space for camping and fishing equipment and can be quickly upgraded to a watertight bulkhead.

The Ripple’s V-shaped keel allows for excellent responsiveness on the water and makes it possible for it to track straight in all kinds of water, making it

Seaward kayaks:

Seaward Kayaks is a Canadian-based manufacturer of high-quality sea kayaks. Founded in 1986 in British Columbia, Seaward Kayaks has since built a reputation for producing some of the finest kayaks in the world.

With over 30 years of experience, the brand has honed its craft, creating innovative designs that cater to different paddling styles and preferences.

The brand offers an extensive range of sea kayaks, including single, double, and triple kayaks, as well as recreational and touring kayaks. Seaward Kayaks has been at the forefront of kayak design, incorporating cutting-edge technology and materials into their products.

The brand is known for its use of Kevlar and carbon fiber in its kayaks, resulting in lightweight and durable watercraft that can withstand the rigors of the sea.

One of Seaward Kayaks’ most popular models is the Passat G3, a touring kayak designed for long-distance expeditions.

The Passat G3 features a spacious cockpit that provides ample room for gear and a comfortable seating position.

The kayak’s hull design ensures that it tracks straight and handles choppy waters with ease, making it a popular choice for paddlers looking to cover long distances in challenging conditions.

Another popular model is the Chilco, a tandem kayak designed for couples or friends who want to paddle together.

The Chilco features a roomy cockpit and adjustable foot braces that cater to different-sized paddlers.

The kayak’s low profile and sleek lines make it easy to maneuver, even in rough waters, while the hull’s design ensures that the kayak tracks straight.

In addition to its extensive range of kayaks, Seaward Kayaks also offers custom designs for paddlers who want a watercraft that caters to their specific needs.

Seaward Kayaks’ custom kayaks are tailored to each customer’s preferences, including their body size, weight, and paddling style.

The brand’s expert craftsmen work closely with customers to create a kayak that is unique to them and reflects their individuality.

Seaward Kayaks’ commitment to quality extends beyond its products. The brand is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact and has implemented sustainable practices in its manufacturing process.

Seaward Kayaks uses eco-friendly materials, including recycled plastics and natural fibers, in its kayaks, and recycles or repurposes waste materials.

The brand is also involved in community outreach programs, including kayaking lessons and environmental education, to promote conservation and outdoor recreation.

If you’re looking to purchase a Seaward Kayak, their products are available through authorized dealers worldwide.

The brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has earned it a loyal following among paddlers, and its kayaks are renowned for their performance, durability, and reliability.

Seaward Kayaks is a brand that caters to both novice and experienced paddlers, offering a range of kayaks that are suitable for different skill levels and paddling styles.

In conclusion, Seaward Kayaks is a Canadian-based manufacturer of high-quality sea kayaks that has built a reputation for producing some of the finest kayaks in the world.

The brand’s extensive range of kayaks caters to different paddling styles and preferences, and its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability has earned it a loyal following among paddlers.

Whether you’re looking for a touring kayak to explore the open sea or a tandem kayak to paddle with a friend, Seaward Kayaks has a watercraft to meet your needs.

With over 30 years of experience, Seaward Kayaks is a trusted name in the paddling community and a brand that you can rely on.Popular Seaward kayaks are:

• Passat G3
• Chilco X3
• Tyee

Passat G3:

The original Passat hull, praised by adventure racers, served as the foundation for the Passat G3 (Dual first place in the Yukon River Quest). A true 3-hatch (3 Cockpits with an optional seat) racing and expedition tandem is made possible by a slight increase in overall depth, an increased spread of cockpit locations, and custom-curved bulkheads.

Compared to most singles, the Passat G3 is more stable. With or without the rudder, it tracks well, edges easily, and cruises at 5 knots without any trouble. Even in rough waters, it is secure, sturdy, and capable of sailing. It has surpassed all other composite kayaks sold by Seaward.

With its “Greenland”-style bow, graceful lines, solid feel, and expedition capacity, this double/triple kayak offers an unmatched combination of speed, comfort, and storage.

Chilco X3:

The multi-chined, low-rocker hull of the Chilco allows for quick acceleration and effortless tracking.

The kayak’s relatively small wetted surface and good stability for edging turns are made possible by its clearly defined chines.

This compact expedition kayak maintains stability whether at rest or in motion thanks to the shallow “V” of the hull.

The forward speed and acceleration are both very quick. The low profile of the Chilco results in simple rolling and little wind resistance in challenging conditions.

The ergonomic cockpit layout makes entry simple, and the thigh braces can fit a range of paddler sizes.

Chilco X3 Features and Specifications

Structure: Type of Rigid/Hard Shell Cockpit: Inside Seating Solo configuration

Adults of average or larger size make the best paddlers.

Beginner, intermediate skill levels

Tyee:

The Tyee is one of the kayaks that tour companies most frequently request due to its greenland upswept bow, incredible stability, and large cargo capacity.

The Tyee is a great option for casual cruising, fishing, and photography thanks to a generous beam and a long waterline. Even when heavily loaded, the Tyee’s snug cockpit and extra volume in the bow allow for a dry ride.

The Tyee is responsive when exploring for an afternoon and simple to control when cruising when compared to other medium volume kayaks.

Regular Features

• Rudder Stay-With-Tie-Down Smart Rudder System Recessed Deck Fittings Molded
• Padded Seat and Backrest Sliding Foot Pedals
• Outside Seams in Fiberglass
• Glass hatches on both sides
• Plastic Bulk Heads
• UHMW keel quard
• 3/32 Rubber Cables
• Safety features
• Self Rescue System(SRS)
• Safe Hatch system

Souris River Canoes:

Souris River Canoes is a Canadian manufacturer of high-quality canoes based in Atikokan, Ontario.

The brand has been producing canoes since 1985 and has established itself as a leader in the industry, known for its innovative designs and use of cutting-edge materials.

Souris River Canoes’ commitment to quality has earned it a loyal following among paddlers, and its canoes are renowned for their performance, durability, and reliability.

The brand offers an extensive range of canoes, including solo, tandem, and family canoes, as well as lightweight canoes for portaging.

Souris River Canoes’ designs cater to different paddling styles and preferences, with options ranging from recreational to touring canoes.

The brand’s canoes are made using composite materials, including Kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, resulting in lightweight and durable watercraft that can withstand the rigors of the water.

One of Souris River Canoes’ most popular models is the Quetico 17, a tandem canoe designed for long-distance expeditions.

The Quetico 17 features a spacious cockpit that provides ample room for gear and a comfortable seating position.

The canoe’s hull design ensures that it tracks straight and handles choppy waters with ease, making it a popular choice for paddlers looking to cover long distances in challenging conditions.

Another popular model is the Tranquility, a solo canoe designed for quiet, peaceful paddling on calm waters.

The Tranquility features a lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver and portage, while the canoe’s shallow arch hull ensures stability and responsiveness.

The canoe’s compact size also makes it a popular choice for paddlers who want to explore smaller waterways, including creeks and streams.

Souris River Canoes’ commitment to quality extends beyond its products. The brand is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact and has implemented sustainable practices in its manufacturing process.

Souris River Canoes uses eco-friendly materials, including recycled plastics and natural fibers, in its canoes, and recycles or repurposes waste materials.

The brand is also involved in community outreach programs, including canoeing lessons and environmental education, to promote conservation and outdoor recreation.

If you’re looking to purchase a Souris River Canoe, their products are available through authorized dealers worldwide.

There are so many models of Souris River kayaks.some of them are:

Quetico 17:

There are numerous them if you paddle the wild areas in Canada and the United States. That is not by chance! These canoes are incredibly strong, light, and stable.

You’ll be extremely grateful you’re paddling a Quetico 17 when you find yourself forced to paddle hard against a headwind. It takes in very little water over the gunwales while riding high on the waves.

Size: 17′ 3″

• 44 lb. (Kevlar®) in weight
• 42 lbs. (Carbon-Tec) (Carbon-Tec)
• 35″ Gunwale width, 2″ rocker
• Bow: 20″; Center: 13.5″; Stern: 20″

Tranquillity :

You might want to take a look at this one if you are an expert solo paddler or a casual kayaker who prefers the canoe’s capacity for gear storage and loading simplicity.

This sleek vessel will transport all the supplies you need for your wilderness adventure while moving across the water as quickly as lightning.

​Both a canoe and a kayak paddle can be used to paddle this canoe, which tracks straight. You should be aware that this is a performance canoe that some paddlers may find tippy. Try one out before you buy, as we highly recommend.

Specifications\sLength

• 15’5″
• 33lbs
• 31lbs
• Weight
• Kevlar
• Carbon Tec

Fletcher Canoes:

Since 1984, Fletcher Canoes, a Canadian business with headquarters in Muskoka, Ontario, has been creating handcrafted canoes.

The company is renowned for making exceptionally high-quality canoes that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional when used on the water.

From small solo canoes to substantial family-sized canoes, Fletcher Canoes offers a range of canoe models.

The canoes from this brand are constructed from a range of materials, including wood and composites like Kevlar and fiberglass.

Every canoe is individually handcrafted and tailored to the owner’s preferences, making each one a work of art.

The Muskoka Canoe, a traditional wooden and canvas canoe that pays homage to the traditional canoe designs of the Muskoka region, is one of Fletcher Canoes’ most well-liked models.

Fletcher Canoes is dedicated to protecting the environment and advancing the sport of canoeing in addition to producing high-quality canoes.

To encourage conservation and outdoor recreation, the company is actively involved in community outreach programs, such as environmental education and canoeing lessons.

Products from Fletcher Canoes can be purchased from accredited retailers across Canada and the US.

Its canoes are renowned for their beauty, performance, and durability, and the company has a devoted following of paddlers thanks to its dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.

Lone Pine Canoe:

A Canadian business called Lone Pine Canoe is focused on producing superior, handcrafted canoes.

The business was established in Kingston, Ontario, in 1984, and it has since expanded to become one of the top canoe producers in the nation.

Recreational, expeditional, and racing canoes are just a few of the canoe models that Lone Pine Canoe manufactures.

The canoes produced by the company are constructed from a variety of materials, such as Kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber.

Each canoe is individually handcrafted by skilled craftspeople using age-old methods to guarantee the highest possible level of craftsmanship.

The Prospector canoe, a multipurpose and tough canoe ideal for wilderness excursions, is one of Lone Pine Canoe’s most well-known models.

A prospector canoe features a shallow arch bottom, which provides excellent stability and maneuverability on the water.

The canoe is available in a range of sizes, from solo to family-sized, making it a versatile option for all types of paddlers.

These Canoes are mainly handcrafted and custom made Canoes.Lone pine manufectures and also repairs Canoes.These Canoes are manufectured in Bracebridge,Ontario.

Kiwi kayaks:

Kiwi Kayaks is a Canadian kayak manufacturer that have their headquarters in North Bay Ontario.

Since it began making kayaks in 1984, the business has developed a reputation for creating high-quality, adaptable, and reasonably priced kayaks.

From recreational kayaks for calm waters to sea kayaks for rougher waters, Kiwi Kayaks has a large selection of kayaks.

The Lobo , a small and stable recreational kayak that is excellent for beginners or those seeking an easy-to-use kayak, is one of their most well-known models. Kopapa,Lobo,Osprey,Aurora,Angler kayaks are light and maneuverable.

It has a wide cockpit that is designed to provide a roomy and comfortable seating area.

Additionally, the kayak has a padded backrest and environment friendly, high-quality kayaks are a priority for Kiwi Kayaks.

Their kayaks are made with recycled materials, and their production is done in a way that has the least possible negative environmental effects.

Additionally, the business sells a wide selection of kayak accessories, such as paddles, life jackets, and spray skirts, to make sure that users have everything they need for a secure and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Overall, Kiwi Kayaks is a reputable Canadian kayak company renowned for its cutting-edge designs and dedication to quality.

The Kiwi 3 model is a well-liked option among paddlers and is a great choice for people looking for a dependable and reasonably priced recreational kayak.

Kopapa kayak:

Kopapa is a type os sporty boat and it is very easy to handle. I t is enjoyable on any type of water and very maneuverable.

This boat can handle anything because it was built to withstand Class III rapids. The Kopapa is simple to transport and store because it is small and light.

Integrated carrying handles.

wonderful for lakes, rapids, and waves.

adjustable footrests and seat backs.

offered as part of a sports package.

Specifications:

• 8’7″ in length, 27″ wide, and 12″ deep.
• Size: 33 lbs.
• Cockpit: 16″ x 35″; 225 lb. maximum load.

Lobo kayak:

In kiwi kayak brand the most popular kayak is the Lobo. It is swift and nimble thanks to its slight V-bottom design.

Paddling is simple and enjoyable thanks to a roomy, comfortable cockpit. It can turn on a dime and is stable and maneuverable.

The Lobo was simply more enjoyable to paddle and felt like the performance boat of the group. – August 1997 issue of Canoe & Kayak

Excellent for sea kayaking, rapids, and lakes.

adjustable footrests and seat backs.

Molded-in handles make it simple to carry, chain, and tie things down.

offered as part of a sports package.

Specifications:

• 9’2″ in length, 28″ wide, and 12″ deep.
• Size: 37 lbs.
• 19″ x 37″ Cockpit
• Maximum weight: 275 lbs.

Backcountry custom Canoes:

Babulic launched Backcountry custom Canoes made in Canada that are specifically designed for the kayakers that are super lightweight.

These ancient Canoes are rare and in high demand. These Canoes and kayaks are made in Guelph,Ontario.

These canoes are tough and able to withstand the rigors of backcountry expeditions because they are painstakingly made with a keen eye for detail and using only the finest materials.

The degree of customization that Backcountry custom canoes offer sets them apart from other canoes.

Customers have a lot of options to choose from, including the canoe’s size, shape, and construction materials.

As a result, customers can design a canoe that suits their individual requirements and preferences.

Backcountry custom canoes are the ideal option for anyone looking to explore Canada’s great outdoors due to their exceptional quality and superior design.

Delta kayaks:

Selecting the ideal kayak is simple with Delta Kayaks. They avid paddlers are aware that getting the most out of kayaking requires fit, comfort, and performance.

All Delta Kayaks have an upswept bow and long waterline for an effective dry ride.

The highly specialized thermoplastic materials used to mold Delta Kayaks.

The kayak’s hull and deck are made of an exclusive ABS and acrylic mixture that was extruded as a single piece of material.

Our boats are made of this lightweight material, which offers the best defense against fading and weathering and will last for many years with little to no maintenance required.

A Canadian company named Delta Kayaks specializes in creating top-notch kayaks for various paddling adventures.

Their kayaks are expertly crafted using cutting-edge technology and materials, and they are designed with innovation and precision.

Delta Kayaks are renowned for their streamlined, contemporary designs that combine style and performance.

They provide a wide selection of kayaks, each catered to the individual requirements of the paddler, including touring kayaks, recreational kayaks, and fishing kayaks.

The business uses recycled materials and adopts environmentally friendly manufacturing techniques because it places a high value on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

For paddlers who expect nothing less than the best, Delta Kayaks is a top option thanks to their dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability.Some of the Delta kayaks are:

• Delta 10AR
• Delta 12AR
• Delta 12S
• Delta 12.10
• Delta 14
• Delta 15.5GT
• Delta Traverse 17.5T

Delta 10AR:

This compact, 10-foot kayak redefines performance for the recreational kayak market.

With its “Fusion Hull” design, the Delta 10 maintains a high level of stability without the excessive beam of most recreational kayaks.

It also clips along with remarkable speed and agility. It works well as a platform for fishing and taking pictures, and because of its small size and light weight, it’s a great option to store on the deck of bigger pleasure boats.

It has a large rear storage hatch with a sealed bulkhead, an under-deck storage pod, soft grip handles, adjustable foot braces, and a multi-position Contour II Seat System with plenty of comfort and adjustability for the whole family to enjoy.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Length: 10′

Width: 27″

Depth: 14″

Weight: 37 lbs

Cockpit Opening: 18.5″ x 36″

Cockpit Volume: 58gal

Day Pod: 3.5gal

Max Capacity: 280 lbs

FAQs: