Best Whitewater Rafts Reviews with Buyer’s Guide in 2022

It's impossible to describe how thrilling it is to maneuver through whitewater rapids and feel the raw force of nature up up and personal. Turbulence, water depth, and flow speed all add to the thrill of the ride. The water becomes frothy white because of turbulence.

For many people, once they've had a taste of whitewater rafting or kayaking, they'll want to do it all the time.

Would you know which pontoon to ride if you were given the opportunity to ride these rapid rivers? Continue reading to learn about the best whitewater rafts on the market.

Top 8 Whitewater Rafts: At A Glance

1. Super Duper Puma by Aire
2. 9’6″ Whitewater Raft (RD290X) by Saturn Boats
3. Outlaw 130 Self-Bailing Raft by NRS
4. 1.2mm PVC 15’ Whitewater Raft (BRF450) by Bris
5. Sotar SL 13′ Liquid Raft
6. Williwaw 1 Raft by Maravia
7. SB-105 Storm 10.5′ Self-Bailing Raft by Rocky Mountain
8. Outfitter 10.5 Min-Max by Hyside

Top 8 Best Whitewater Rafts in 2022

Whitewater rafting is one of the most exhilarating water activities, and there aren't many others that come close. The excitement of navigating the rapids' twists, turns, cold water sprays, and drops is only matched by the greatest whitewater rafting experience.

As a result of our research, we've identified the best whitewater rafts on the market today. All it comes down to now is finding one that will not only keep you afloat but also give you the confidence to sit on it should things take an unexpected turn.

1. Super Duper Puma by Aire – Best Large Sized Raft

Features

• Useful on fishing rivers and difficult water.
• Ideal for a paddle squad of up to seven individuals.
• A quick ride is made possible by the narrow beam.

Specifications

The first thing you'll notice about the Puma Series Aire Inflatables' biggest variant is its iconic look. Even though the majority of rafts on the market today are sleek and contemporary, Puma isn't one of them. As a result, it stands out from the crowd of other rafts.

In addition to the traditional design, you have the option of picking from a variety of colors. In addition to the standard colors like black, red, and blue, Super Duper Puma comes in a variety of uncommon hues like as wolf, lime, and neon yellow.

This 14-foot-long raft, which can accommodate seven people, is the biggest in the fleet. It's not simply built to carry a large number of people. It's so tough it can handle Class 4 and 5 rapids with ease. Due to its 14-foot length and small breadth, the Super Duper Puma is ideal for confined spaces.

The 1670 denier bombproof PVC tubes are coated. To top it all off, Aire used their AIREcell technology, which utilizes urethane air bladders encased in a PVC shell. This raft's puncture and tear resistance is improved due to the use of urethane, a more durable and lighter fabric.

Super Duper Puma's heat welding seams technique is something you'll like. This, together with the use of urethane air bladders, results in a raft that is among the most durable available. A double varnish gray PVC coats the bottom of the piano-hinged pre-lacing floor system, making it particularly resistant to scrapes and scratches.

In general, the Super Duper Puma raft is a very strong and long-lasting. Although the small width limits the amount of space for your gears, the same slimness also enables you to ride as fast as you want while maintaining total control.

2. 9’6″ Whitewater Raft (RD290X) by Saturn Boats – Best Compact-Sized Raft

Features

• Front and rear soft lifting handles.
• Around the raft's circumference are self-bailer holes.
• Industry-standard Pushpin flat valves by Halkey Roberts.

Specifications

• Floor type: 1.2mm PVC drop-stitch “Outfitter”
• Bottom floor fabric: 1.5mm 1,100D PVC bottom
• Main tube fabric: 1,100 Dtex High Strength PVC

Whitewater Rafts provide speed and thrill for adrenaline seekers while yet keeping composure for a leisurely flatwater cruise or fishing trip on the RD290X 9'6" Whitewater Raft.

This new raft from Saturn Boats was designed to compete with the expensive mini-rafts already on the market. Because it's just 9.6 feet long, this tiny raft has all the essential characteristics of a larger raft, but it's more maneuverable because to its small size.

When measured in feet and inches, it can squeeze through even the tightest of spaces. Although it seems to be a little craft, it is capable of transporting up to four people while navigating Class 3 rapids.

Even if the thought of flying on a plane filled with turbulence scares you, you may always take a more sedate trip to your favorite fishing place. While it can accommodate up to four anglers at a time, you'll have plenty of room for your cooler and other fishing equipment.

The mobility of the RD290X is a major selling point. Other large rafts are difficult to transport, but this one fits comfortably in the trunk of a midsize vehicle or the rear of an SUV.

PVC fabric 1100 dtex is used in the tube's construction. The fabric is 1100 g/m2, 0.9 mm thick on both sides, and the floor has been redesigned with a new double-layer PVC construction. The bottom layer is also 1.5 mm thicker since it wraps around the outer tube.

The most recent RD290X version provided 70% better security. It also increased the drop-stitch method's thickness by 50%, resulting in stronger and more stable flooring.

It's possible to get an RD290X in three different colors: blue, dark gray, and red. For those who wish to express themselves even via the color of their raft, they may get a customized RD290X by calling them.

3. Outlaw 130 Self-Bailing Raft by NRS – Best All-Around Boat

Features

• Frames are covered with stickers.
• A primary tube with three air chambers in it.
• D-rings in stainless steel, each measuring 2 inches in diameter.

Specifications

• Main tube fabric: 2000D PVC 
• Bottom floor fabric: 4000D PVC 
• Floor type: 4-inch thick drop-stitch floor

Starting as a professor's effort to illustrate the concepts in the classroom, it evolved into establishing a boating gear line with just the $2000 he saved. NRS (National River Supplies) was founded in 1972 by Bill Parks with the goal of helping people enjoy the water activity that he enjoys so much.

With his passion for rivers, he developed the durable and dependable gear for professional outfitters and guides, who have the highest expectations. Dry bags for boaters were NRS' initial product introduction in 1974. Since then, the company's product range has expanded to include boats, frame designs, life jackets, clothing, and accessories.

The most adaptable raft they've made is one of their inventions, according to a lot of customers. In addition to rafting, the Outlaw 130 Self-Bailing Raft is ideal for camping, day excursions, fishing, and boating. This raft is capable of handling everything.

Gear, equipment, and passengers can all fit in the boat's 14-foot length and 7-foot breadth. The padded thwarts may be removed and reinstalled as needed since they are detachable. All of your gear attachments will fit perfectly on the D-rings of this tool.

The NRS BAT (Batten Attachment Thwart) system, included with the Outlaw 130 Self-Bailing Raft, allows you to easily add up to three additional thwarts. It seems like it would make gear attachment a snap, don't you think? There's more to it than meets the eye.

Pennel Orca® material is used for the hull and tubes, making this boat extremely strong and long-lasting. Damage and deterioration are not an issue with this material. You won't be alarmed by the roughest ledges or the nastiest turns.

The LeafieldTM C7 and A6 Pressure Relief Valves make storing and inflating this boat a breeze. If you look at the outside profile, you'll see how smooth it is and how it doesn't catch on other things.

4. 1.2mm PVC 15’ Whitewater Raft (BRF450) by Bris Inflatables – Best Overall

Features

• On tubes, there is a pressure release valve.
• The raft was covered with strake when they finished this step.
• There are six lifting handles on either the front or the side of the vehicle.

Specifications

For Bris Inflatables, their river rafts are meticulously constructed and strengthened on all four sides. Thus, even in the most extreme water conditions, the raft will not capsize. 1.2mm PVC 15' Whitewater Raft is a must-have since it has all you need in terms of durability and quality assurance.

With four overlapping ridges, the BRF450 raft is very resistant to ripping and puncture. This product has a 3-year manufacturer's warranty, although it's unnecessary given how strong it is.

Punctures and rips from pebbles won't be a problem with the 2000 dtex 1.2mm PVC fabric and polyester support because of the high-pressure drop-stitch raft floor.

This whitewater raft's numerous useful attachments are another incentive to purchase it, in addition to its long-term endurance. To begin, there are three detachable and attachable inflatable thwart seats aboard the boat, depending on the situation.

The repair kit and foot pump that come with it make inflation and deflation as well as repairs a snap. very easy. There are 12 D-rings total, which may be used to connect a fishing frame or other accessories. Additionally, the BRF450 has a helpful all-around lifeline rope.

Many rafters believe the BRF450 is robust enough to tackle Class 5 rapids even if it lacks a whitewater rating. With a 15-foot length and a 7-foot breadth, it can fit up to 12 people comfortably. Perfect for large gatherings and families, don't you think?

The strake protection on the BRF450 protects the raft from being damaged by pebbles, stones, or other sharp items. In addition, if your boat is held down, you won't have to be concerned about it popping as the pressure rises. The pressure relief valves on the BRF450 were specifically designed for this purpose.

5. SOTAR SL 13′ Liquid Raft by Sotar 

Features

Specifications

• I-Beams: 6
• 40 oz./ 3000 denier
• Thwarts/Thwart Diameter: 3/13”

As an example of the power of design, consider the SOTAR SL 13' raft. SOTAR's designer created a 21" to 16" decreasing tube so that even if your raft is just 13 feet long, you still enjoy the room of a 14-foot raft. Oh my my, this is fantastic.

A quick raft or an overnight excursion with your supplies is an option. Wait a little longer, because the SL13 lets you have it all. As the name implies, the SL13 is an extremely fast inflatable kayak. You may use it as a paddle raft and row your way down the river when it's fully loaded with 7 people. In contrast, if up to four people join the raft, the rowing experience will last for many days. For a day journey, as many as 6 people may enjoy a comparable experience.

This raft is so simple to use that even the most difficult maneuvers can be accomplished with ease, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by how quickly and smoothly it delivers. SOTAR's SL13 inflatable, like all of their other products, is made to order, so no two are the identical. The manufacture of a single unit ensures that every product bearing the proud SOTAR mark leaves the manufacturing facilities in good condition.

SL13 is a featherweight raft because to the thinness of the material used in its construction. It's made of urethane, which is more durable than PVC or even Hypalon. This attention to detail means that each raft is individually welded, resulting in a product that is very strong.

As far as we could tell, the new substance just had one aspect to it: a screaming noise. The SL13 is more expensive, but it's well worth it.

If you are a white water rafting fan and don't mind paying a little more, then investing in the SL13 is a smart move.

6. Williwaw 1 Raft by Maravia

Features

Specifications

The Maravia Wind Series raft is designed to endure the harshest circumstances and yet function well on the most challenging whitewater. Maravia's best-selling model for over a decade has been the Williwaw. This illustrates how much people respect and admire the Williwaw.

The foundation of the Williwaw 1 is made of Class VI cloth. The high-quality cloth and seamless Urethane coating provide 40 times greater abrasion resistance than PVC. It is also 15 times more durable than Hypalon. It has consistently shown its high level of quality and effectiveness, regardless of where they operate.

The raft floor's top surface is textured to increase paddling and boarding out of the raft's friction. This improves the riders' overall sense of control, stability, and security. The raft's performance is further enhanced by the bottom's lack of friction.

Featuring tubes of 20 inches in diameter, the Williwaw 1 is a 14-foot raft designed for whitewater use. The raft comes with two thwarts. There are three sets of thwarts, and an extra set may be added if needed.

Trips that last three to four days may accommodate up to three people with their luggage, while a paddle can seat up to eight persons. And the full-diameter bow and stern at the front and back guarantee a drier ride for everyone. Both day excursions and overnight journeys will be comfortable in this raft.

The self-bailing drop stitch floor guarantees that water is automatically drained. Along with providing more stability on the whitewater, it's also an attractive design feature. The frame is equipped with a total of 10 D-rings, which are located in various locations. In addition, the raft has four grab grips. If you need more, go ahead and get more.

Showcasing great trust in the quality of its raft the business provides a lengthy guarantee of 10 years from the date of purchase against the faults plus the 5-year commercial warranty.

7. SB-105 Storm 10.5′ Self-Bailing Raft by Rocky Mountain

Features

Specifications

The Rocky Mountain SB-105 Storm Whitewater Raft is one of the company's smallest rafts at 10'6", but it's also one of the most inexpensive. Despite its tiny size, the raft is quite durable because to the use of 3000 denier PVC in its construction. Compared to other self-bailout rafts, this one has a significant advantage over the competition.

There are two separate air chambers in this machine, each with their own unique function. In addition, it is equipped with a floor and two thwarts for defense. As a result, there are five Leafield valves on the raft itself. On sunny days, a pressure relief valve is installed on the floor to allow the building to depressurize.

It's best to take the raft with three adults, although it can accommodate two to four persons with no problem Because the thwarts are detachable, you have more freedom to move them about as needed. It's possible to row without thwarts entirely. Using pipe insulation instead of chafer strips makes it easy to cover the frame side of the bars and prevents any marking.

The all-welded raft has ten D-rings welded to the sides: the bow, which is in the front, and the stern, which is at the back. More may be used if necessary.

SB-105 Storm 10.5′ comes in a variety of hues. Seasonal variations affect the colors that are readily available. In all seasons, the blue/gray and orange/gray are the most popular choices.

Price-wise, it's very reasonable and won't put too much pressure on your wallet. You won't even have to look at your accounts to see whether it's in your library.

It's a good idea to bring the smaller Rocky Mountain raft if you already have a huge raft. It'd be far cheaper to just buy a bare raft since you already have all the gear you need to raft down a whitewater river. This nimble monster won't let you down with its ease of movement and speed, either.

8. Outfitter 10.5 Min-Max by Hyside

Features

Specifications

Hyside's Min-Max 10.5 has been a hit since it was introduced a short time ago. The raft's length is just enough for tiny rafters, but it's also spacious enough to accommodate bigger boaters. The raft's heavily cambered bottom decreases the area that comes into contact with the water significantly. Because of this, the friction is reduced, and the performance is faster, particularly during rotation.

The urethane bottom chafers have a significant impact on the boat's performance. On even rough rocks, the raft is able to glide easily thanks to it. It performs like a plastic raft but has a rubber shell. The raft's exceptional durability is a result of the use of Hypalon. Furthermore, the ideal thickness helps maintain the raft's weight within reason.

There are two handles on the raft. In addition, it features 2 thwarts and 8 D-rings. The self-bailing floor does not require any further effort on your part to remove the water, since it does so through holes strategically placed in the floor. The triple bond seams provide the raft's weakest points more strength and extend the boat's lifespan. A tiny repair patch is included on the tube as well as a preventative wear patch.

On each side of the perimeter tubes are two chambers: one on the right, and one on the left As a result, taking it on an overnight journey isn't a cause for worry about its durability. If you are going on an extended vacation, it may be more difficult since you may not always locate a large beach where a quick evacuation is possible.

The 10.5 Min-aesthetics Max's and comfort level combine to provide a pleasurable riding experience. The raft's primary selling point is its ease of mobility. This makes paddling more convenient for the user. It excels in tricky slots and over shallow rocky terrain.

Our Top Pick

Whitewater rafting requires certain inflatable boats, and not all of them are appropriate. Yes, they're all excellent for outdoor activities like camping and fishing. For whitewater, however, the ideal raft is the one with the strongest structure. Materials are an important factor to take into account as well.

Simple to operate, adaptable, long-lasting, and sturdy are all important in a whitewater raft. Our best choice, the Super Duper Puma by Aire, has all of these qualities and more.

Aire's inflatable boat utilizes cutting-edge technology to assist keep its durability and long-term value promises. These features more than make up for the product's high cost. This is a wise purchase if you want to go whitewater rafting often.

What to Consider When Choosing a Whitewater Raft: Buying Guide [2021]

Only six of the best whitewater rafts are included here, due to the abundance of options on the market. We've reduced down your options, but if you still want to look at other rafts, here's a list of things to keep in mind.

What Are Your Plans for It?

The first thing you need to do is decide on a purpose for the raft. Is it a fishing pier or a boat? Are you looking for a gentle river experience for your family? Or will there be rapids of Class 4 and 5?

For those who want to do a lot of rafting in class 3 and higher rapids, it's best to invest in a raft that's strong and durable enough to withstand the stresses of the water.

With a raft that's exactly the perfect size for you and one or two friends or family members, fishing is a blast. The modest size of the Saturn Boats RD290X makes it perfect for such fishing excursions.

Construction

The raft's structure will reveal a lot about how well it handles different water conditions, so plan ahead of time what you want to use it for. Urethane, Hypalon, and PVC are three common materials used in rafts nowadays, with many of them being combined. These three have a distinct effect on the features of each raft they're added to.

• Urethane - This material is both light and strong. Highest tearing and puncture resistance among the available options. It's likely to be pricey and inconvenient to keep or ship. Urethane is used in Aire's air bladders to help them last longer. Urethane.
• Hypalon - Easy to roll and resistant to UV and chemicals, Hypalon is a great choice. It's a drawback because they're often bonded together, so the blending may come undone. They're also a little heftier.
• PVC is a low-cost, lightweight, and flexible material. They're not as strong as Urethane or Hypalon, but they're still good. They can't resist UV or chemical degradation, either. As a result, several manufacturers cover their products with additional coatings to increase their chemical resistance.

Design

The design of the raft should be appropriate for the use you want to make of it. In terms of stability and rigidity, wider rafts are better; on the other hand, they are less maneuverable. They're simpler to manage, but they're less stable when they're narrower.

Also, keep in mind while designing the bottom whether or not they are self-bailing, how many D rings there are for fishing gear connection, and whether or not there are any pressure-relief valves. Having a grab line, strake protection, and grips for simple handling on your raft can also assist.

Accessories

Some rafts may need additional attachments above the very minimum that we are all familiar with. Whitewater rafts should include at the very least a set of oars, an air pump, and some other basic equipment such as a carry bag and a tool kit.

What Is Whitewater?

So long as there are rapids and enough turbulence to make the body of water, typically a portion of a river, frothy and unstable, it may be either a river or a creek. There is a reason for the name "whitewater" - it causes the water to become frothy and seem white.

Gradient, constriction, blockage, and flow rate all contribute to the formation of whitewater. Topography of the streambed is the first three variables to consider, and it is very stable. Because of shifting rocks and boulders and alluvium deposition during the rainy season, streambed morphology may alter permanently, creating new pathways for flowing water.

Gradient is a river's incline. Stronger torrents are found in deeper water. When water from a river is injected or pushed into a smaller channel, it causes constriction.

Obstruction is the third streambed topography element. Obstruction occurs when the dislodged pebbles and boulders form obstacles, impeding the river's ability to flow freely again.

Flow rate describes how fast the water in a river is moving. Increasing or decreasing it is an option. The river's flow rate determines the severity of the rapids. It is based on the ratio of volume to time.

There are many types of whitewater throughout the world. The International Scale of River Difficulty devised this rating system. This affects the difficulty and safety of the whitewater. The ratings take into account both the technical challenges and the possible risk posed by a rapid.

Whitewater’s different classifications are;

• Class 1 – There are just a few rough spots, so there's no need to worry about navigating. 
  • Skill level required: none
• Class 2 – It's possible that even in calm water with a few pebbles and minor drops, you'll have to make a few adjustments. 
  • Skill level required: basic paddling
• Class 3 – There is not much risk in moderate waves, although much maneuvering may be required. The drops range from 3 to 5 feet.
  • Skill level required: experienced paddling
• Class 4 – Extreme conditions like as rapids, cliff drops and whitewater may need quick movements and the use of a canoe or kayak.
  • Skill level required: advanced whitewater experience
• Class 5 – High-speed whitewater with enormous waves and continuous rapids, huge boulders and hazards, a few significant drops, and precise navigation typified by must-moves are all necessary.
  • Skill level required: expert
• Class 6 – Rapids that cannot be crossed. If you do it, you risk being hurt, drowning, or perhaps death.

Final Verdict

As strange as it may seem, the calm that many adrenaline addicts want to hear is created by the sound of the waves smashing and the shrieks of your party as you negotiate rapids. Drops, bumps, and leaps provide an exhilarating rush that everyone should have the opportunity to experience at least once in their lifetime.

Even while it seems like a lot of fun, it's not possible without the appropriate boat to sail in. The safety of the raft should take precedence over anything else when making your decision on the best whitewater raft. Whitewater rafts of the highest quality are robust, safe, and long-lasting. Bushcraft Hungry has a wealth of knowledge about outdoor gear.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What does “self-bailing” mean in whitewater rafts?

A: Having holes on the floor is self-rescuing due to the basic design. Kayaks, for example, operate on the similar principle. Water that enters the deck should be able to escape since the top level is permeable. So, there you have it. The low-cost and straightforward hole design.

Q: What does Dtex mean?

A. Dtex is an abbreviation for Decitex, according to the dictionary. Continuous filament or yarn has a linear density that may be directly measured using this metric. Texel is one-hundredth of the size of a denier.