About Lightning Kayaks
Lightning Kayaks primarily sells kayaks, with a strong reputation for producing stable, entry-level pedal drive kayaks. While reviews emphasize product quality and exceptional customer service, there is no information provided about specific 'kayaking for kids' activities, rental services, or family entertainment venue offerings. Parents should consider this company for purchasing a kayak for family use, rather than as a destination for children's activities.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Parents looking to *purchase* a stable, entry-level pedal kayak for family recreational use, fishing, or general water activities.Individuals prioritizing strong customer support and product stability when making a kayak purchase.Families seeking a 'Made in USA' product.
Why families love it
- Superior kayak stability (e.g., Lightning Strike, Nomad, Strike HD are 'super stable', 'very stable', 'superior to other fishing kayaks'), which is beneficial for beginners and families.
- Outstanding customer service, including direct involvement from the owner (Stuart Lee) and CEO for support and issue resolution (e.g., immediate responses, video calls, home visits for leaks, quick drive replacements).
- High-quality build for pedal drive kayaks, described as 'Top Notch' and 'made to last' (e.g., kayak build, drive, seat, hatches, storage bin).
- Kayaks are 'Made in the USA'.
- Customer service staff are friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and easy to work with (e.g., Craig Reed, Jenna).
- Exceptional product stability, making kayaks suitable for various water conditions including ocean fishing.
Insider tips
- If considering purchasing a kayak, consult the 'Lightning Kayak owners page on Facebook' for recent feedback and potential issues, especially concerning newer models.
- Expect highly responsive and personalized customer support for any product-related inquiries or issues.
- These kayaks are good 'entry level' options for pedal kayaks.
- If picking up from the factory, be aware the team is pet-friendly.
Good to know before you go
- Purchasing newer 'covid era' kayaks without thorough prior research on reported quality issues via the Facebook owner's page.
- Visiting with the expectation of a 'kayaking for kids business' offering rentals, guided tours, or organized children's activities, as reviews indicate a product sales focus.
- Reports of potential quality issues with newer 'covid era' kayaks that are 'not properly being addressed by the company' (Review 4).
- Advice to check the 'Lightning Kayak owners page on Facebook' for information on current issues before purchasing newer models, indicating a possible decline in consistency.
- While excellent customer service is highlighted for issue resolution, the existence of 'a few tiny issues' and 'a leak in the kayak' suggests occasional product defects.
- Value
- The price for Lightning Kayak's pedal drive kayaks (specifically the Strike and Strike HD) is described as 'spot on' and 'right for a pedal kayak,' offering good value for their quality build, stability, and customer service. They are positioned as excellent entry-level options.
- Safety
- Kayaks are consistently praised for 'superior stability', which is a key safety feature on the water for all users, including children. No other specific safety measures for a children's activity venue are mentioned.
What parents say
"I love my Lightning Strike Kayak. Had it for over 2 years now. Took it to Ocean fishing many times. Super stable just like my 2019 Outback. I have bunches of videos on my channel fishing of Lightning Strike. Lightning Kick 106 is on the way to my house as I'm tying this review. Customer services is awesome. Thanks to Craig Reed from Lightning Kayaks for his awesome service."
a year ago
"I got the new Nomad and used it in the Gulf of California for the first time. Great kayak! Very stable! When I got back I contacted the company because I had some questions. Stuart Lee, the owner of Lightning Kayaks, responded immediately and volunteered his and one colleagues time for a video call. Outstanding kayak and outstanding support!!!"
a year ago
"If you are interested in purchasing a peddle drive kayak, Lightning Strike Kayaks is the way to go!! The price on the Lightning is spot on for what you get in a peddle drive kayak. The build of this boat is Top Notch!! From the kayak itself to the drive, seat, front hatch and storage bin everything is made to last! I can’t wait to see what this company will bring in the future! Now customer service- There aren’t enough stars to give this company and their staff! They are friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and so easy to work with. I had a some issue with my drive and Lightning sent out a new d"
4 years ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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