Kayaking is one of the easiest outdoor or boating activities to get into. You’ve probably done it before with a rented kayak at a lake vacation home or summer camp as a kid. It’s easy to learn the paddle technique, and it’s fun to be out on the water!
But if you want to get into kayaking as a serious hobby, you’ll need to buy a boat! There are more options to choose from than you may realize. So let’s take a look at the types of kayaks.
Sit On Top Kayaks
This is a wider style of a kayak with an open cockpit is one of the best flat water kayaks. They are very stable which makes them good for beginners. They are also a popular option among fishers because the open cockpit makes gear easily accessible. If you’re looking for a great kayak for a fisherman, check out this article.
However, if you’re a photographer who wants to protect his camera or prefer a dry ride, this might not be the best kayak for you. They tend to be lower to the water so you’ll probably get a little splashed during your boat ride.
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks are a shorter style – about 10 feet or less. They have a closed cockpit but usually have a large enough opening that you could fit a small child in the seat with you. In the summer, if you prefer, some models have a cockpit that you can leave open to allow sun and a little water in.
The name recreational, in part, refers to their abilities. They’re a slower model of the kayak which means they’re not great for sport. However, they’re perfect if your kayaking intention is to just float along and enjoy the scenery.
They also don’t track very well which means you may find yourself drifting in one direction. But again if you’re more of a drifter anyway, this won’t matter so much to you.
Touring Kayaks
Touring kayaks are some of the longest kayaks coming in at 12 feet, but they have the smallest cockpits. They are the fastest and most expensive kayaks and often come with thigh braces to right a capsized kayak. Their speed and daintiness make capsizing more likely.
Pedaling Kayaks
Pedaling kayaks are an excellent option for people who back or arm problems who still want to kayak. Most of the forward motion is done with pedals attached to the boat and a little propeller. You only need to paddle for some steering and coming back to the dock.
Creek Boats
Creek boats are for more experienced kayakers and are especially good for going white water rafting. They’re only 8 feet long and their superior volume makes it easy for them to resurface.
Inflatable White Water Kayaks
If you’re looking for a more accessible white water beginner option, the inflatable white water kayak may be for you. They are wide and stable, and more comfortable to sit in than a lot of creek boats. You can’t use them on rivers with tight turns, but for your first white water adventures, they’ll suit your purposes just fine.
Types of Kayaks Explained
Whether you’re a fisherman, a photographer, a thrill-seeker, or someone who just likes being out on the water, there’s a good kayak for you. Consider whether comfort or control is most important, and you’ll be able to begin narrowing down options from the various types of kayaks out there.
Do you love outdoor sports? Check out more in our Lifestyle section!
