The first things to do when purchasing a kayak is to decide what kind of kayak you need. If you’ve joined a kayaking club and been out in a kayak before, then you will have some idea of which parts you enjoyed and can tailor you purchase accordingly.
If you don’t have that much experience and are just looking for a boat to get you started, then research your local kayaking hotspots. If you live on the coast, there probably isn’t much point in getting a whitewater kayak. If you’re miles from the sea, then an ocean kayak is probably a waste of money. There are, however, a few things to consider that apply to most kayaks.
If you are just starting out as a paddler then a recreational kayak is probably your best choice as a beginner’s kayak. This is because recreational kayaks often have the best primary and secondary stability. Before branching out into more specialized forms of kayaking, it is best to become comfortable out on the water, and the stability of a recreational kayak is often more forgiving as you learn.
Comfort is paramount when choosing a kayak. A well-fitted kayak prevents cramping, has padding on all the contact points, and allows the kayaker to use their lower body to torsion and maneuver the kayak. When purchasing a kayak, make sure its the right length for you. If you have a particularly long frame, then an 8-foot kayak may feel cramped. Look for adjustable foot and thigh braces, not only will they make the kayak more comfortable but they will also improve your control over it.
All types of kayaking need some level of equipment. Some kayaking activities, such as fishing or camping, require a significant amount on gear to be brought with you. When you are considering a potential kayak, examine how much gear storage is available. Most kayaks will come with one waterproof storage hatch and bungee cord storage on deck. If your chosen kayaking activity requires a large amount of gear, look for kayaks with large open storage areas, known as tankwells, or portable accessory carriers (P.A.C.) which can be towed behind your boat.
Kayaking is often a solo activity and this can mean a kayaker can run into difficulties when needing to transport their kayak to and from the water. If you normally kayak solo, then consider the weight of the kayak when making a purchase. There are accessories that can assist with this; car racks are the easiest way to transport a kayak and a kayak trolley can really help to get a heavier kayak down to the water.
Being out on the water with a kayak is not only fun and relaxing but a great way to get your kids outdoors and away from those digital screens! The only problem might be finding the best kayak just for kids. I didn’t want to worry about my kids when they first started kayaking, which … Read more
Kayaking is an amazing sport and a great way to stay active, meet new people, and experience things you would never otherwise get to see. When you are a beginner starting out on your kayaking adventure, a lot of the more technical kayaking gear is optional, but one thing definitely isn’t: your kayak! Picking a … Read more
Inflatable kayaks are a great alternative to traditional boats. They’re compact, easy to transport, and often more affordable than their plastic or fiberglass counterparts. There are a ton of inflatable kayaks on the market, including the Intex Explorer K2. It’s a low-cost, two-person kayak that’s perfect for an easy day on the water. It comes … Read more
Whether you want to buy a new boat for wakeboarding, offshore fishing, or just spending casual afternoons on the water, you’ll want to be sure that your investment is going to last for years to come. All boats need maintenance, but you’ll spend a lot more trying to maintain your boat if you choose a … Read more
Age is just a number when it comes to enjoying the serene beauty of kayaking. For older adults, the right kayak can transform a challenging activity into a delightful adventure on the water. In this guide, I’ll explore the best kayaks designed with senior paddlers in mind, proving that you’re never too old to embrace … Read more
The lure of the water is easy to understand. Whether you’re grabbing your paddle to spark some excitement, or to take a relaxing break from the everyday, there’s no better way than a tandem kayak to experience what your local lake, river, or coast has to offer. Because they allow you to share your paddling … Read more