Top Whitewater Kayaks of 2022

Finding the best whitewater kayak takes time and research. While there are plenty of kayaks out there, some boats do rivers, creeks and whitewater better than others. 

We’ve created this list of the CKS Online's top 5 whitewater kayak designs of 2022, so you can quickly find that next option for your boat quiver. Our list includes river runners, creek boats and more from Jackson Kayaks, Pyranha Kayaks, Liquid Logic and Dagger.

Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak

If you’re in the market for a kayak that can handle whatever you throw at it, you’ll want to check out the Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0. This updated boat model offers all the playfulness and fun you expect from the Antix and the fine-tuned design gives you the stability and the speed you want.
The Antix 2.0 has been updated to include Jackson Kayak’s Bee’s Knees thigh braces, offering a more secure fit and overall better feel when on the water. Comfortable and lightweight, the included thigh braces make the perfect addition to your kayak.
If you struggle with having enough legroom in most kayaks because of your height, or you'd just like a little more space, you’ll love the increased legroom in the AntiX 2.0. At a length ranging from 7’7” to 8’5” and width of 25” to 28” (depending on the size you choose), the Antix 2.0 is longer and wider than the Antix. But we promise you’ll barely notice!
With years of innovation in design, Jackson Kayak is well-known for high-performing whitewater kayaks, and coined the phrase “unlock the river”. The Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 will help you elevate your next kayaking experience.

Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak

$1,599.00
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Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Kayak AntiX 2.0 Whitewater Kayak

Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak

Adventure is the name of the game with the Pyranha Scorch Series river runner. Whether you’re chasing an adrenaline boost on a Class IV or V river or taking it easier on Class II and III water, when you’re in a Pyranha Scorch, you’re ready to ride.
This kayak is the ultimate culmination of redesigns, upgrades, and evolution that has been decades in the making at Pyranha Kayaks. You’ll love the hybrid rocker profile and the unique balance of edge and length the Scorch offers.
The Pyranha Scorch comes in four length options, up to 10 feet, allowing you to find the size that fits you best. The full-size grab handles all the way around the kayak makes it easier to handle and transport.
If you’re in the market for a kayak that has the speed, volume, and attitude you need to make your next adventure amazing, look no further than the Pyranha Scorch. 

Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak

$1,699.00
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Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch X
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak
Pyranha Scorch X
Pyranha Scorch Whitewater Kayak

Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak

Even though the Dagger CODE is a newcomer to the game, you shouldn’t dismiss it simply because of that. If you want an all-around creeker or river runner that offers comfort, style, and volume in all the right places, you’re looking for the Dagger CODE.
This is a great option for every paddler, from beginners to expert river runners, and benefits from inspiration of previous Dagger Kayak designs. The Dagger CODE features the performance of the Dagger Phantom combined with the agility and ease of movement from the Dagger Mamba.
Whether you’re out for the day or a weekend on the river, the all-day comfort you’ll get from the Contour Ego outfitting will keep you on the water as long as you want to be there.
The Dagger CODE comes in three size options, ranging from Small: 8’3” long and 26” wide to Large: 9’2” long and 28” wide. Confidence, comfort, and cool color schemes come together to give the Dagger CODE everything you could hope for in your river runner – so much so that these kayaks are some of the hottest-selling pieces on the market!

Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak

$1,599.00
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Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak
Dagger Code Whitewater Kayak

Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak

You want the best of the best, and, when it comes to playboats, the Jackson Kayak Rockstar V is the undisputed heavyweight champ. Choice whitewater kayak of Dane Jackson – the current Freestyle World Champion – the Rockstar V is the freestyle weapon you’ve been looking for, giving you an advantage on the water that you simply won’t get with anything else.
This updated model offers you everything you love from the Rockstar line, with features and fine-tuning to take it up a notch. The now-included Bees Knees thigh hook system gives you the comfort and security you need when you’re on the water.
Whether you’re looking for a competition playboat or simply want a playboat that can do it all, you’ll get it with the Rockstar V. Boat lengths range from 5’4” to 5’11”. This kayak has the volume, controllability, and quality you’ve come to expect from Jackson Kayak.
If you’re still not sure that the Rockstar V is everything you want and more, see what Emily and Dane Jackson have to say about it in CKS First Look: The Rockstar V with Emily and Dane Jackson, where we interviewed Emily and Dane to get their thoughts on the new model Jackson Kayak Rocktar!

Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak

$1,599.00
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Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak
Jackson Rockstar V Whitewater Kayak

While not a new design, the LiquidLogic Homeslice is still one of CKS Online's favorite boats. There’s definitely something to be said about a kayak design that can stand the test of time, and the Homeslice has done just that.
This kayak offers extreme comfort in design and predictable-yet-fun mobility on the water. The high, ergonomic knee position and expansive foot room combine to make this a retro kayak that you can use for a multi-day trip, a quick session after a long day at work, or a long, exciting ride on the river.
The LiquidLogic Homeslice is available in multiple colors and one size. At 7’7” long and 26” wide, this kayak offers a more square-ended design than many other kayaks. However, this design offers a looseness and faster carving on the water than you might be used to. You’ll get more stability with the slicier design, and the long length offers you the speed that you’re craving. 

We're Here To Chat If You Have Questions

Finding the perfect kayak helps you take on the water in the ways you want. No matter what kind of whitewater kayak adventure you’re looking for, we have the right kayak for your needs.
From high-performance to durability and speed, we’ve got it all. And if you’re looking for the best of the best, our Top 5 Kayak Designs of the Year have you covered! CKS Online kayak experts are standing by to answer your questions, don't hesitate, we love to chat kayaks!