Kokopelli Moki-Lite Kayak
Rating
Performance: 8
Size/Weight: 8
Durability: 9
Setup: 10
Value: 9
OVERALL: 8.8
A simple, dependable inflatable kayak.
The Kokopelli Moki-Lite is a lighter-weight inflatable kayak that balances ease of use with solid build quality. It’s got a drop-stitch floor and removable tracking fin to help it steer reasonably well and while it won’t match rigid kayaks for speed, it’s great for quick outings on calm water, bays or inlets.
Comparison
Rank: #3
Open Size: Mid-length
Packed Size: Compact & light
Weight: Light–Mid
Capacity: Mid-range
Best For: Casual paddlers who want an easy and portable kayak.
Pros: Stable, durable, portable, easy to use.
Cons: Awkward bag, wind affected, slower than hard-shells.
Verdict: A convenient inflatable kayak that trades speed for practicality.
Skip ahead to First Impressions, Setup/Packdown, Paddling Experience, or the Final Verdict, check out how the Kokopelli Moki-Lite compares to others in our list of the Best Inflatable Kayaks, or see how we choose the best inflatable kayak.
Specs:
Open Size: 305 x 89cm
Packed Size: 76 x 48 x 15cm
Weight: 7.8kg
Capacity: 181kg
Approx Price: $799
First Impressions
Straight out of the bag, the Kokopelli Moki-Lite feels more solid and better built than many cheaper inflatables. The drop-stitch floor gives it a firm base, and the thick side tubes add to the feeling of stability and safety. Visually, it looks sleek and modern, with a shape that feels closer to a real kayak than a pool toy. The bright colour scheme also helps with visibility, which is reassuring if you plan to paddle on lakes or coastal areas. It gives off a practical and durable vibe, rather than something flimsy or disposable.
Setup/Packdown
Setting up the Moki-Lite is fairly easy and should not intimidate beginner kayakers. Inflation usually takes about five to ten minutes with the included pump, and the valves are simple to use. The removable drop-stitch floor slides into place and adds noticeable stiffness once inflated. Attaching the seat and fin is straightforward, although the fin can require a bit of force to fit properly.
We found that packing it down is where patience is needed. While everything does fit back into the bag, it only works if you fold it carefully and remove as much air as possible; using the pump in reverse to suck out the remaining air helps a lot.
The carry bag is functional but awkward, as the zips feel a bit weak and the shape makes it hard to close without forcing it. For short trips from the car to the water, it is manageable, but for longer walks, the bag can feel uncomfortable and poorly balanced.
Paddling Experience
Now, when out on the water, the Moki-Lite is stable and forgiving. It feels secure even for beginners and the wide base makes it unlikely to tip easily. The removable tracking fin helps it stay on course, although it does not glide as smoothly as a hard-shell kayak. There is a slight side-to-side wobble when paddling, especially if you sit too far back. The flat bottom and higher sides mean it can be pushed around by wind, so you may need to work a little harder to keep it straight in breezy conditions.
That said, for calm lakes, slow rivers and sheltered coastal bays, the performance is more than good enough. It feels comfortable and predictable, and the EVA seat provides decent support for a few hours of paddling. Unfortunately, the lack of a built-in footrest means your core does more of the work, which can lead to fatigue on longer trips. Still, for casual use, it gives you a relaxed and enjoyable paddling experience without feeling unstable or stressful.
Final Verdict
The Kokopelli Moki-Lite is a well-designed inflatable kayak that focuses on convenience, portability and durability rather than speed. It will not replace a hard-shell kayak for serious touring or long-distance paddling, but it does a great job as a recreational option. If you want a kayak that you can store in a cupboard, fit in a small car and use regularly on calm water, the Moki-Lite is a practical and reliable choice.
Want to see how the Kokopelli Moki-Lite compares to others? Check out our list of the Best Inflatable Kayaks.
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.