
How to Pick the Best Kayak for You
Buying a kayak is interesting, but the process can be complicated. This buying guide breaks down all the points to consider.
The possibility of owning your own kayak can be overwhelming. But with so many options out there, it can also be prodigious.
You will want to think about how you will be using the kayak, such as where you will be going for paddling and how frequently. Will you be out on a lake(calm water) or in the ocean (rougher waves)? Are you looking for a more comfortable experience with nature or a bold day touring?
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Let’s discuss some tips which help you find the best kayak for you and the various experiences you are looking for.
SIT-ON-TOP VS. SIT-IN
There are two categories of kayaks: sit-on-top or sit-in. Choosing which of these will work more suitable for you is the first step in narrowing your choices.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks:
Sit-on-top kayaks are suited for a recreational day on the water or fishing and it is user-friendly.
- They are handy and are normally a good option for novice kayakers.
- Sit-on-top kayaks are quite suited for sunny environments because you will get splashed.
- It can be simple to get on and off while giving a good level of durability.
Sit-In Kayaks:
Sit-in fishing kayaks are designed with a cockpit and It looks more “traditional”.
- They provide you with some shelter from the wind and water. You can add a spray skirt cover for additional coverage. A spray skirt is a waterproof cover with a hole for your waist. They can help block water from entering the kayak as you paddle.
- Sit-in kayaks offer more storage space
- It is usually formed with foot braces.
- Opposite to what some may think, at first sight, sit-in kayaks are much large. So, don’t worry about feeling restricted in a small space.
- The sit-in kayak may be more effective to paddle than the sit-on-top variety due to its lower center of gravity.
The third option to view is inflatable kayaks. Inflatable kayaks are durable, lightweight, and easy to transport from one place to another. Once your day with water is complete you can deflate the kayak so it fits in the can or van. Inflatable kayaks are the best option for a beginner who is looking for their first kayak.
Once you have decided whether sit-on-top kayak or sit-in kayak style is right for you, then you can look for various types of kayaks to choose from. You will find modular kayaks, fishing kayaks, touring kayaks, and many more.
Hull Types
Hull types of kayaks are the shape of the bottom of the boat. It can make a difference in stability and performance in the water. There are two types of stability that need to understand:
- Primary stability is also known as initial stability. It refers to how stable the kayak is when you are getting into the boat. This means you are less likely to flip when you walk into your kayak and sit down.
- The second stability refers to how stable you are in a kayak once to start paddling. This means you are less likely to turn over when you step into your kayak and sit down.