Whitewater kayaks are a type of kayak designed specifically for whitewater kayaking.

Compared with other types of kayak, they tend to be shorter for more maneuverability and often have chines to aid in turning, tracking and stability. There are many different styles of whitewater kayaks from longer, aggressive profile racing boats to shorter, low-backed playboats. Kayak style depends on the level of the kayaker (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and the purpose of the boat (racing, playing, leisure).

While whitewater kayaking is possible in more delicate boats, whitewater kayaks are generally made of plastic and hold up well after repeated smashing into rocks.