Whether you are a beginner or an expert in kayaking, safety should always be your top priority. For that reason, we are going to guide you on how you can get the best kayak outriggers and stabilizers for the money.
With a stabilizer or outrigger, your vessel can have more stability and that can translate to added safety for you.
Our reviews below aim to make your search for the best product shorter and easier since the list contains what we consider the best-made stabilizers and outriggers in the market.
This is followed by a simple buying guide on what to look for if you want to land the ideal gear available.
Top Kayak Outriggers & Stabilizers: Ratings
Below are helpful reviews featuring both the pros and cons of each one of the 7 systems covered here. A buyer’s guide follows at the tail-end of this write-up.
1. Kayak Stabilizer System #302 by Scotty
We can point out several good reasons as to why this stabilizer system by Scotty is extremely popular among anglers. The primary reason is the balance and stability that it offers such that you are never going to tip over.
You may also appreciate how lightweight and compact this kit is to give you an easy time in transporting it. Let’s also mention how easy it is to inflate and deflate the pontoons.
Lastly, then pontoons are made from sturdy material so that they can resist the damage brought about by sharp rocks.
Pros
Lightweight and compact
Durable
Offers outstanding excellent stability
Cons
Doesn’t come cheap
2. Spring Creek Hydrodynamic Stabilizer
If you are looking for a kayak stabilizer that would assure you of comfort and safety as you are in the water, this unit by Spring Creek Manufacturing has the answer to your questions.
First, it is crafted from polyethylene plastic to give you a lightweight yet a long-lasting product. Then, there is the hydrodynamic design that minimizes the drag through the water.
Also, the locking cam lever arms allow for easy adjustability of the stabilizer.
What’s more is the universal receiver crossbar that is available in different lengths of 30″, 36″, 40″ and 45″.
Therefore, it can fit all the vessels.
Pros
Easy to assemble
Lightweight
Universal fit
Cons
Only for beginners
3. Brocraft Kayak Outriggers
Are you looking to invest in a really safe outrigger? If you are, this system by Brocraft is here for you. To kick us off, the outrigger is very easy to install, and this makes it perfect for beginners.
The outrigger comes with a stainless steel mounting hardware that attaches to the rod holders. Just the installation, the detachment is easy too.
We also liked the overall build-quality, starting with the aluminum frame that is lightweight and sturdy at the same time.
The mounting hardware on its part is rust-resistant, while the PVC floats are likely to last for a lifetime.
Pros
Comes with a two-year warranty
Decent lifespan
Easy installation
Cons
The mounting nuts loosen too easily
4. Hobie Sidekick Kayak Outriggers
If you are a sucker for inflatable pontoons, the Hobie Sidekick outrigger is your perfect match. Besides that, there are several other features that make this an excellent unit to invest in.
To begin with, the installation is quite easy courtesy of the installation hardware that you have at your disposal.
On top of that, you do not have to be a pro to complete the installation.
We also liked how lightweight the unit is, at about 5lbs. The fact that it is deflatable makes it very easy to transport.
Lastly, you can adjust the aluminum arms to your preferred height.
Pros
Awesome build quality
Easy installation
Easy to transport
Cons
Pricey
5. Meter Star Inflatable Kayak Outrigger
As an outdoor water sports enthusiast, there are a couple of reasons why you would find these two pieces to be very appealing.
The first benefit is that the floats are lightweight and very easy to transport. Further, the stabilizers are made of PVC material to make them very durable.
Also, inflating the outriggers is very easy, and you should be done in a few minutes.
Lastly, the outrigger is a universal fit and would work on a host of vessels, including canoes, boats and kayaks.
Pros
Great for beginners
Universal fit
Easy to inflate
Cons
No mounting hardware
6. YakGear Generation 2 Stabilizers
The YakGear Generation 2 stabilizers aim to give you more control over your entire kayaking experience. This is due to their design that allows for easier adjustability of the arms.
Also, the stabilizers come with all the hardware that you need for installation. Even better is the simple set of instructions to guide you through the installation.
We liked the affordability of this set, whereby you do not have to break the bank to acquire it.
Pros
Allows for extra mounts
Well-priced
Comes with all the hardware for installation
Cons
Not ideal for installing on gear tracks
7. Airhead SUP Training Wheels
The last item on our list is by Airhead and is specially designed for beginners as well as plus size paddlers.
You will find the stabilizers useful for fishing or yoga, plus you could use it for training your child or dog into joining the game.
The stabilizers are made out of PVC for sturdiness and durability to withstand harsh and unfriendly conditions.
What’s more, are the sturdy nylon straps that should last for ages.
The patented speed valves are there to make inflating and deflating the stabilizers a very straightforward affair.
Pros
Well-made
Perfect for beginners and kids
Easy inflating-deflating
Cons
Leaks air
How to Choose Stabilizers/Outriggers for Kayak
Due to the many brands of stabilizers and outriggers available in the market, your search may easily become a complicated affair. However, if you focus on a few crucial factors, nothing should stop you from getting the best item.
Price
In most cases, pricier products tend to be of better quality. This is because they are often made of premium materials plus have outstanding designs.
However, there are budget-friendly options that still deliver outstanding performances.
Floatability
The main aim of a stabilizer is to boost your kayak’s overall buoyancy. Besides safety, this product allows your kayak to accommodate more gear and catch as well.
Bonus Accessories
Always look out for stabilizer kits that come with extra accessories such as nuts and bolts plus anything else that you may need for installation. Note that you could always buy these items from nearby shops.
Compatibility
Some products are designed to work with specific kayaks, while others are made to be a universal fit. The latter is more preferable, plus they should also be used with different vessels such as boats and canoes.
Related
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, we shall attempt to answer some of the common questions we faced during our research on the kayak stabilizers and outriggers.
Q: What is a kayak outrigger?
A: This is a device that aims to boost your vessel’s stability and buoyancy. Due to this purpose, we may consider it a safety device since it minimizes your chances of capsizing with your kayak.
Q: Which is the best place for my kayak stabilizer on the vessel?
A: The best location is where the stabilizer would not come into contact with your paddle or fishing line. In some kayaks, you may use the spots that have been made for installing rod holders to mount your system.
Best Kayak Outrigger Choice – Verdict
In our research, the product that stood out from the rest is Kayak Stabilizer System #302 by Scotty. It is lightweight and compact, plus it is made from sturdy materials to ensure that it serves you for a long time to come.
Final Thoughts
We understand that kayaking is an enjoyable activity. However, your safety should always come first, and that is why a kayak outrigger or stabilizer would be an essential part of your gear.
Take your time and read what factors would make a product stand out. Additionally, you do not have to go far to find your ideal stabilizer since we believe the items on the list are the best in the market.
I own a 3 metre French triac the original amas were a bit small .Iam looking for inflatable amas , 2.5 metres long 250 mil diameter with attachment points ,so I can fit the akas . Is there anything on the market that would suffice my needs ?
March 9, 2022 at 5:29 amit has a centre board kick up rudder and sails well in all weather conditions .Is there foam amas that would suit my purpose would appriciate a response . W Hackmann.