Wondering how to choose a kayak? It can be daunting if you’re a first-timer, so here’s all the information I wish I’d had before I bought my first one.
Standing in the middle of my local kayak store as a newbie, I wished I had done some research. Then the kayak salesman showed up and addressed me in some kind of coded language full of terms I had never heard of before.
Fortunately, with a bit of research, choosing a kayak is a fairly straightforward process and you won’t need to go through the same fumblings I did. Let’s get started with a little history.
Kayak History
Far from being a new, trendy activity, kayaks are thought to date back to at least 4000 years ago. In America’s far north, the Inuit, Aleut, and Yup’ik tribes were the first people to build and use kayaks.
The first kayaks were made of animal skin (usually seal), stretched over driftwood or a piece of a whale’s bone. Kayak shapes and the materials used varied, depending on location. But with early examples, whale fat was a common waterproofing method. Seal bladders were also filled with air and used to increase buoyancy.
Meaning “man boat,” single kayaks were small crafts, predominately used for hunting. Larger kayaks (called umiaqs) could fit an entire family.
In 1845, kayaking started to spread across Europe as a recreational sport. Based on Inuit kayak drawings, John MacGregor built the first modern kayak, preferring fabric over animal skin. He initiated competitive canoeing in 1865, and six decades later, kayaking entered the Olympic Games.
Early 20th century kayaks were made of fiberglass until the advent of plastic kayaks in the latter half of the century. Today, kayaks are made of many different types of light and durable materials, and the Olympic Games hosts more than ten whitewater kayak competitions.
Types of Kayak
Several types of kayaks exist, each fitting a different kayaking style. Let’s take a look at some of the main types of kayak below.
Inflatable Kayaks
Inflatable kayaks are considered the most convenient kayaks as they’re collapsible and can fit in small spaces. Some can even fit inside a backpack—though you won’t get anything else inside once you’ve stuffed your kayak in!
They’re made of fabric, covered with a durable plastic layer. Because they’re light and versatile, they’re the preferred vessel for many campers and amateur kayakers.
Inflatable kayaks can be used on both still lakes and whitewater rivers, providing kayakers with good maneuverability. Although compact, some are large enough to take on a multi-day trip.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
Traditional sit-in kayaks have a built-in cockpit with a seat. Sit-on-top kayaks (SOTs) have an open cockpit, making it easier to enter and exit when needed.
You might think it’s easier to tip over; however, these kayaks are very stable. They should be able to withstand most water conditions, including rivers, streams, lakes, or the ocean. Even if your kayak takes in a large amount of water, the self-bailing configuration won’t allow the kayak to sink.
For a more relaxing experience, a kayak seat can be added for back support. And if, like me, you enjoy exploring the underwater world, it’s easy to jump off and snorkel from a sit-on-top kayak.
Overall, SOTs are convenient, stable, and safe. But because they’re heavier, they aren’t as efficient as other kayaks in terms of speed.
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks are probably the most stable and comfortable vessels you’ll find, making them a great option for beginners. Slightly smaller than a day tourer at 10 to 12 feet, they won’t get you to your destination very fast. They’re designed so that you can kick back and enjoy the scenery and serenity.
Rec kayaks are normally easy to manoeuver in and out of the water. They’re distinguished by their built-in cockpit and are made of sturdy but lightweight materials. Storage is often limited in these, so they’re perhaps not the best choice for multi-day trips, but they do nicely fit in a camera, your lunch, and space for a child.
Touring Kayaks
If you’re looking for a multi-day adventure, a touring kayak might be the right craft. Longer than recreational kayaks, at 13 to 14 feet long, the extra length provides additional speed and ample storage.
A deck rigging set is usually found in front of or behind the cockpit, allowing easy access to needed items or an emergency kit.
When the weather is against you, a spray skirt will prevent water from entering the cockpit. Some crafts even come with a drop-down system or a rudder to increase maneuverability and help with the currents and wind.
River Kayaks
River kayaks are aimed at experienced kayakers. Narrow and long, they’re often used for racing as they smoothly and quickly move through the water.
On the downside, they’re more likely to capsize and are difficult to make turns with. If you’re out on the water with a river kayak, make sure you know how to perform an Eskimo roll. That’s righting an upside-down kayak.
This video provides an excellent demonstration:
Ocean and Sea Kayaks
Sea kayaks are narrower but longer than recreational kayaks. They generally measure from 16 to 19 feet long. This length and the narrow width makes them faster. They’re normally used with a spray skirt to prevent water from entering the craft. Outriggers and rudders help maintain the kayak’s stability.
Spacious and speedy, they might be ideal for longer expeditions.
Whitewater Kayak
Whitewater kayaks are about half the size of a sea kayak and a large rocker provides the mobility and stability needed for navigating through moving water. The rocker allows the kayak to move like a rocking chair, with less resistance against the water movement.
These kayaks usually have little power, as it’s provided by the river. They have good buoyancy, which is what you need when your kayak flips over in a strong stream or on the rapids.
Materials
Kayak can be made with a variety of materials, each has its own unique pros and cons. Here are some of the most common materials used.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene kayaks first appeared in the 1970s and are now the most common crafts available. The plastic material is placed into a kayak mold where it’s then heated, producing a perfectly molded kayak.
Polyethylene is very durable, and a kayak made of this material should last you for years. If you’re planning to kayak in rocky waters or on significant rapids, this may be a good option.
This material isn’t only used for kayaks, but also for car parts, food containers, and more. It’s one of the most affordable kayak materials.
On the downside, polyethylene is heavier than other materials, and easily damaged by ultraviolet light. To make it last, regular sunblock treatments, such as 303 protectant spray, should be used.
ABS Plastic or Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate kayaks are a bit more expensive than polyethylene craft, although most offer the same durability. They’re more resistant to ultraviolet light and might take decades before starting to degrade.
They’re also lightweight, but it should be noted here that they’re still heavier than composite kayaks. Because the two look similar, polycarbonate and composite kayaks are often confused.
Composites
Kayaks made of composites include fiberglass, carbon fiber, and aramid. They’re light and strong and on the water, they’ll respond fast. If any damage to the kayak occurs, it’s an easy fix, even by the least experienced kayakers.
Composite kayaks are also the most expensive and fragile when it comes to direct shocks.
Special Considerations
Besides deciding which type of kayak you want and what materials suit you best, you also need to weigh up any special considerations. For example, do you have kids, or does your dog need a spot too?
Tandem Kayaks
Tandem kayaks come in many different shapes and models: fishing, touring, recreational, sit-on-top, and even inflatable designs.
They’re great for the simple reason that they increase the fun factor by allowing you to include your companion, kid, or even take your dog for a ride. They come with adequate storage compartments as well.
Lightweight Kayaks
Lightweight kayaks carry advantages on the ground because they’re lighter to carry. And on the water, they go faster than heavier options.
Inflatables are considered the lightest kayaks and are super easy to cart around.
The kayak material you choose will have a great impact on your kayak’s weight. The lightest materials—carbon or fiberglass—are also the most expensive, but they’re stronger and easily repaired.
Kayaks for Children
Kayaks for kids usually come with paddles included. It’s important to choose a lightweight kayak that is suitable for your child’s height.
If this is your child’s first kayak, it might be best to choose a durable and inexpensive kayak. If he or she shows further interest in kayaking, you can always upgrade.
Kiddy kayaks don’t necessarily need all the bells and whistles, in fact, the simpler the better. Storage, an adjustable seat, and a life jacket are all that you need.
Because SOT kayaks are simple to get in and off, they’re very suitable for kids. You’ll also be less worried about capsizes because the child can easily move away from the kayak.
Kayaks for Dogs
Kayaks that are suitable for dogs don’t necessarily need to be marketed as such. Here are a few kayak types that work well with furry friends.
Recreational Kayaks
Most recreational kayaks are enclosed with a built-in cockpit. They can fit small to medium dogs. Only tandem kayaks are truly suited to larger, water-going dogs.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
SOT kayaks are the best dog-friendly crafts. They’re one of the most stable ones and your furry friend shouldn’t have any troubles jumping on or off. They also have plenty of storage to fit all your dog gear.
Keep in mind, however, that it’s highly suggested to keep your dog between your legs.
Kayaks to Avoid
Sea kayaks and whitewater kayaks are both too narrow and not very dog-friendly.
Kayaks for Larger Individuals
There is nothing more embarrassing or uncomfortable than trying to get into a tight and narrow kayak when you’re on the larger side.
Kayaking should be a relaxing and pleasant experience, not an arduous event that goes sour before you begin. If you need a bit more space, choosing the right kayak is important.
Width
Width might be the most obvious factor, but it’s also the most important. Width won’t only give you extra space, it will also increase the kayak’s stability.
Weight
Each kayak can hold a certain amount of weight. It’s important that you select a sturdy kayak with a lot of buoyancy.
A kayak allowing additional weight is best, you might even catch a big fish or need to bring some extra gear with you.
Style
Sit-in kayaks should give you more comfort and back support. Although they’ll keep you dry, they’re not always the easiest to get in and out of.
Sit-on-top kayaks might be the best option. They offer the utmost stability and you shouldn’t have any trouble getting on or off your kayak.
Material
There is no need for fancy materials. Plastic is not only durable but affordable too.
Summary
Kayaking is an amazing experience. Whether you’re going through rapids, fishing, or paddling down a calm lake, kayaking brings you in touch with nature. Relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors is even better on a kayak.
Choosing a kayak adapted to your needs might not be as easy as you first thought. But will this guide, you’re off to the perfect start choosing a kayak for your next journey.