Hello Blake, I use an inflatable kayak -- a Sea Eagle 330. I have found this to be quite adequate for my uses. It inflates quickly with a foot pump and deflates very quickly. It is easy to tow and I can take two children or one other adult with me. The only drawback I have found is a propensity to flip in strong winds and a crossing sea. In these cases I simply pump some water into the kayak to give it some ballast. I have also brought it aboard and quicky deflated it so that it can sit in my cockpit. Paddling is fine -- not as good as a hardshell but good enough to meet my needs of getting back and forth to shore. Not sure I would go on longer paddles with it... John M15 Jester