What you Need to Know Before Buying a Kayak

A kayak is a small boat with one or more cockpits, used by paddling with a double-bladed paddle.

The first step to purchasing a kayak is deciding what type of kayaking you will be doing. Depending on the kind of paddling that you do, there are different types and styles of kayaks available for purchase.

It’s important to pick out a boat that fits your needs because if not, you may end up spending more money than necessary getting equipment and accessories to make it work.

Here’s an overview of some common kinds of kayaks:

  1. Recreational or touring kayaks (good for flatwater)

These boats typically have smaller engines and can hold up to 6 people comfortably. While they are not as great at handling rough waters, they are also usable in choppy waters.

  1. Whitewater kayaks (for rivers with rapids)

These kayaks are made for whitewater and can be fitted with spray skirts or a closed cockpit (which you’ll need to learn how to swim in before trying out).

  1. Sea kayaks (for calm waters)

Sea kayaks are great when there’s no wind and when the paddler does not mind getting wet. These kayaks can also be fitted with spray skirts or closed cockpits.

  1. Fishing kayaks (for lakes and rivers)

These kayaks are built for stability, but they can’t go as fast as other types of boats. They usually have a big storage area underneath the seat, which is perfect for carrying fishing gear.

  1. Inflatable options (folding canoes or inflatable SUPs)

These kayaks are perfect for traveling. They can fit into a backpack and won’t take up too much space in the trunk of your car or on a plane.

If you’re looking to buy a kayak, find the best balance of cost and quality for your needs. This way, you can go out on the water with peace of mind knowing that you’re rowing the most perfect boat!