FALTKAJAKS

FOLDING KAYAKS

Experience the freedom of taking to the water with flexibility and independence with your folding kayak from CLR Outdoor! A folding kayak offers the ideal combination of mobility and solid performance. Whether you're paddling on calm lakes, gliding through picturesque river landscapes, or exploring tranquil rivers, a folding kayak is a versatile companion for your adventures. Thanks to its sophisticated design, it's lightweight, quick to set up, and compact to fit easily in the trunk of your car or can even be transported on public transport. Discover our high-quality models like the VIK 3.8 PRO folding kayak, which impresses with its high-quality materials, stability, comfort, and durability.

  • VIK 3.8 PRO Bundle VIK 3.8 PRO Bundle

    VIK 3.8 PRO Bundle

    €2.348,00
    €2.348,00
    €2.477,00
  • Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO

    Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO

    €1.999,00
    €1.999,00
  • Folding kayak VIK 5.0 PRO Folding kayak VIK 5.0 PRO

    Folding kayak VIK 5.0 PRO

    €2.499,00
    €2.499,00

Folding kayak buyer's guide 2025: how to find the perfect model

The VIK 3.8 PRO folding kayak offers an impressive combination of mobility and performance. Weighing just 12 kg and setting up in minutes, the VIK 3.8 PRO folding kayak is a truly high-end product. Its compactness and light weight make it particularly popular with city dwellers without a car, campers, and adventurers.

The VIK 3.8 PRO folding kayak from CLR-Outdoor is available for just 1,999 euros and impresses with its price and quality compared to other providers.

Modern folding kayaks aren't just impressive for their compact transport dimensions—some, like the VIK 3.8 PRO, can be folded down to a length of 70 cm. The first models on the market already contain a high proportion of recycled components; at CLR Outdoor, we rely on almost 100% sustainable materials in the construction of our folding kayaks.

A buying guide, ideally including a test ride, will help you find the perfect folding kayak. From material quality to various uses and practical buying tips, all important aspects should be covered.

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Understanding the basics of folding kayaking

Folding kayaks are based on a centuries-old boatbuilding tradition that originated in the kayaks of the indigenous peoples of the Arctic. These special watercraft consist of two main components: a collapsible inner frame and a flexible hull.

What is a folding kayak?

A folding kayak is a detachable boat that derives its shape and stability from its internal frame. The combination of frame and skin allows for particularly space-saving storage and uncomplicated transport. The basic concept is reminiscent of traditional Arctic kayaks, but has been further developed using modern materials and techniques.

Structure and materials

The internal frame is primarily made of aluminum or wood. While wooden frames are often made of American white ash and birch plywood, innovative models like the VIK 3.8 PRO from CLR-Outdoor don't require a complete frame, but instead combine high-quality materials in the base plate with aluminum frame elements, which impress with their lower weight and greater rigidity. High-end models also utilize plastic or carbon-reinforced materials.

The VIK 3.8. PRO's boat skin is made of EPDM rubber and 100 percent recycled polypropylene sheet. The canopy is made of 100 percent modern, coated Cordura® Ripstop fabric.

Advantages and disadvantages of folding kayaks

✅ High dimensional stability due to clamping devices
✅ Low wind resistance thanks to slim design
✅ Generous loading space thanks to flexible outer skin
✅ Easy transport on public transport
✅ With a little experience, the assembly time for high-quality folding kayaks, such as the VIK Pro 3.8 PRO, is less than 3 minutes


❌ Aluminum and wooden frames should be cleaned after contact with salt water

The most important purchasing criteria

When choosing a folding kayak, various factors play a decisive role in making the optimal purchase decision.

Determine the area of application

Folding kayaks are suitable for many bodies of water.
However, in strong currents, high waves or whitewater passages, you should carefully consider whether your own skills and the capabilities of the boat are suitable for the circumstances.

Models 350 cm and longer are suitable for lakes and calm rivers, while boats between 420 and 550 cm are ideal for longer tours or expeditions. For multi-day trips, the kayak should be at least 450 cm long and offer sufficient storage space.

Quality and durability

The quality of the material significantly determines the longevity of the folding kayak. High-quality models use:


  • Aluminum or ash wood for the scaffolding

  • PVC, EPDM rubber or TPU for the boat skin

  • Reinforcement of e.g. a polypropylene plate for additional robustness

Transport and storage

A folded folding kayak usually fits in the trunk and requires minimal storage space. Transport by bus or train is usually straightforward, and a special carrying bag is recommended for air travel. CLR Outdoor offers a backpack, handcrafted in Leipzig, that weighs just 12 kilograms (including the VIK 3.8 PRO folding kayak), making it ideal for any type of transport.

For a long service life, the boat should be stored in a dry, cool place. Ventilated storage prevents mold growth.

Price-performance ratio

The price range for folding kayaks is wide: While simple models are available starting at 1,000 euros, high-quality expedition models can cost over 3,000 euros.

A robust, durable model like the VIK 3.8 PRO is available from us for under €2,000. The combination of portability, durability, and performance makes this investment worthwhile for many paddlers and offers years of enjoyment.

sustainability

At CLR Outdoor, we focus on environmentally friendly production using sustainable materials and short delivery routes. Our folding kayaks are made from durable, recycled, and recyclable components to minimize environmental impact.

Materials : We only use high-quality, recycled materials such as EPDM rubber, polypropylene sheets and aluminum with up to 95% recycled content.

Recyclability : Our kayaks are designed to be recycled after their long service life. This reduces waste and extends the lifespan of the raw materials used.

Delivery methods : Unlike many other manufacturers, we manufacture entirely in Germany. The kayaks are manufactured in Berlin, while the specially designed transport backpacks come from Leipzig.

This allows us to avoid long transport routes and significantly reduce CO₂ emissions.

Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO

The VIK 3.8 PRO impresses with its sophisticated design and sustainable materials. With a weight of just 12 kg and a maximum load capacity of 120 kg, this Berlin-made model is ideal for urban paddlers and traveling adventurers.

The innovative design allows for quick unfolding from a single panel, resulting in a 380 cm long and 70 cm wide kayak. Thanks to its compact pack size of 70 × 55 × 16 cm, it can be easily stored even in small city apartments.

Self-locking closures and the sophisticated assembly system ensure that the kayak is ready for use in minutes. Once assembled, the smart carrying system transforms into a comfortable kayak seat with an individually adjustable footrest.

The VIK 3.8 PRO uses environmentally friendly materials:


  • EPDM rubber and polypropylene sheet are 100% recycled

  • 95% of the aluminum and closure parts come from recycled materials

  • All components are manufactured in Germany

  • Each kayak is cut, upholstered and assembled by hand in Berlin

Since 2023, the construction has been based on a reinforced PP plate, which provides greater rigidity and gives the bow an even straighter, sleeker shape. The price of €1,999 reflects the high-quality workmanship and the quality materials used.

VIK 3.8 PRO Bundle

VIK 3.8 PRO Bundle

Order now
€2.348,00
€2.348,00
€2.477,00
Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO

Folding kayak VIK 3.8 PRO

Order now
€1.999,00
€1.999,00

Practical buying tips

We'll tell you what you should consider when buying a folding kayak.

Why buy the folding kayak from CLR Outdoor

CLR Outdoor produces its folding kayaks entirely in Berlin and relies primarily on local suppliers. We also use verifiably recycled materials in production. Of particular note are:


  • Personal advice and on-site testing options

  • Short supply chains through local production

  • Traceable material origin

  • Environmentally friendly production methods

  • Additional insurance also possible beyond the purchase.

Note warranty and service

When purchasing a folding kayak, you should pay particular attention to the warranty conditions. Reputable manufacturers often offer a two- to five-year warranty against material and manufacturing defects. Some manufacturers also offer an environmentally friendly take-back policy for used boat hulls. We offer a 12-month warranty against material and manufacturing defects.

Conclusion

Folding kayaks are a practical alternative for water sports enthusiasts. Their low weight (starting at 12 kg) and quick setup time make them particularly attractive. The quality of modern folding kayaks is reflected in high-quality materials, sophisticated construction, and sustainable manufacturing.

FAQ about folding kayaks

A folding kayak consists of a collapsible inner frame and a flexible hull. It folds compactly, making it easier to transport and store. Conventional kayaks, on the other hand, have a rigid hull, which provides greater rigidity and speed, but makes transport less flexible.
Folding kayaks are easy to transport, even on public transport. They offer good dimensional stability, low wind resistance, and, depending on the model, generous storage space. They also save space when stored and allow for spontaneous paddling trips, as they can be transported without a roof rack or trailer.
Important purchase criteria are: • Intended area of use (lakes, rivers, coast) • Material quality/durability of the materials (aluminum vs. wooden frame, boat skin made of EPDM rubber, Cordura® Ripstop, PVC, PU or Hypalon) • Transport and storage options • Price-performance ratio • Assembly time & warranty conditionsA comparison of different models helps to find the right folding kayak.
Many modern folding kayaks are produced more sustainably. Some manufacturers are increasingly using recycled materials, with recycled content of up to 95%. Manufacturers like CLR Outdoor are focusing on local production and environmentally friendly materials, which improves their carbon footprint.
With proper care and use, a high-quality folding kayak can last for many years. Many manufacturers offer a 2 to 5 year warranty against material and manufacturing defects. The durability often makes a higher initial investment worthwhile, especially for paddlers who travel regularly or want to enjoy a good product for as long as possible.
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