Kayaking is just flat out fun.  The fresh air, the adrenaline, and the camaraderie make it all come together.  If you’ve started out on more mild water and want to progress into a more advanced realm then whitewater kayaking might be just the ticket. But what’s the best whitewater kayak for beginners?

We looked at a lot of different boats that could work for beginners and we think we found an awesome boat that’s really capable and can grow with you as you progress to more advanced whitewater kayaking.

Be sure to check out our Best Kayak for Beginners page to find out about other styles of boats that are great for those just getting started.

Best Whitewater Kayak for Beginners:  Overall Winner

Dagger Mamba 7.6

Dagger Mamba 7.6

The Mamba is your go-to boat for learning the harder stuff.  Dagger has been part of the whitewater game for a long time now and this kayak is proof that they know what they’re doing.  Lean, light, and ready to tackle just about anything the Mamba is perfect for those looking to get started in the whitewater scene.  The other nice thing about the Mamba series is that it comes in 3 different lengths:  7.6, 8.0, and 8.5 so you can find the perfect fit and start charging.

The stability is what sets the mamba apart from others.   The bottom of the boat is sharply contrasted to the sides and this allows for awesome stability because of the surface area that’s created. Built for rookies but strong enough for advanced whitewater the Dagger Mamba 7.6 is a killer choice for the best whitewater kayak for beginners.

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A Kayak for the Entire Learning Curve

Built to take you through the entire learning curve from your first paddle down river to your first class V and everything in between the Dagger Mamba will be your new best friend on the water.  The Mamba is a great whitewater learning tool because, unlike more aggressive whitewater kayaks, it’s forgiving enough for a first timer and will let you get comfortable paddling in a sorts of different water without getting tippy.

Designed for Comfort

Since this ‘yak is built around all types of ability levels comfort is a focal point.  If you’re just getting used paddling and being in a kayak comfort becomes super important because you’ll be spending a lot of time just getting used to how the boat handles and flows through the water.

The adjustable backband, roto molded seating, and the leg lifters means that you’re always in the best position for making moves.  The Mamba has an adjustable bulkhead foot brace with incorporated foam padding, that means that your feet stay secured which is critical for paddling efficiency.

The adjustable thigh braces make controlling the Mamba a simple task.  Thigh braces aren’t needed for paddling, but wow do they make a huge difference in how well you can control your boat.  It’s like night and day.  Built for learning, built for performance and built for comfort.  Those are qualifications we can get behind.

Features and Specifications

Features

• Contour ergo outfitting makes learning on the Mamba easy due to the large surface area and stability
• Ratchet adjustable backband lets you customize the fit so you comfortable all day
• Roto molded seating with leg lifter positions you just right so that you can take on the big stuff no problem
• Welded-in seat track is just another forward thinking adjustment method so you’re dialed in
• ConTour adjustable bulkhead foot brace with foam padding means no slipping feet when in the thick of it
• Precision adjustable thigh braces add tremendous control when navigating and rolling the boat
• Multi-adjustable, ConTour hip pads lets you set the contact points to right where you need them
• Security grab handles are perfect for picking up your boat and picking up your soggy friends

Specifications

• Length:  7’7″
• Width:  25.5″
• Cockpit length:  34″
• Cockpit width:  19″
• Volume:  64 Gal
• Deck Height:  14″
• Boat Weight:  43 Lbs
• Max Capacity:  170 Lbs

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The Dagger Mamba is a purpose built whitewater powerhouse and we’re not the only ones to notice.  The Mamba has impressed across the board.

“10/10”- Bombflow Magazine, 2012

“Best for whitewater”- Men’s Journal, 2013

Dagger means business and the Mamba is the incarnation of years of development.  With the outstanding capabilities and specs on the Mamba it’s easy to see why we chose it as our selection for the best whitewater kayak for beginners.

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