How To Choose The Right Kayak For Your Next Trip

You are considering getting a new kayak but don’t know which kind to choose. Don’t worry! This article will guide you on what type of kayak suits the trips you want to do most often.

You also must remember that kayaks aren’t just for paddling around. They’re also great for standing up and fishing, taking your dog along with you, or even sleeping in it overnight! So be sure to read on and find out all about choosing the right kayak for your next trip.

What kind of kayaking do you want to do?

This is the most important factor when choosing a new kayak. Are you going to be paddling around with your friends and family on calm lakes or lazy rivers? Maybe you’ll want to get out there and catch some waves, get in some good fishing, or even get through some rough rapids.

Before you start shopping for new kayaks, it is very important to think about the kind of trips you want to do most often, and the types you want. When compared to rigid ones, inflatable kayaks are said to be really cool. Whether you need a kayak that’s good for fishing, or primarily for surfing choose one that is designed specifically for that purpose.

You can still fish in a recreational kayak, but it may not be the best choice compared to an angler kayak specially made for fishing and will definitely catch more fish with the right equipment compared to a kayak not designed for fishing.

Additionally, a pedal kayak would be a good choice for someone who loves fishing as it leaves your hands free to cast. On the other hand, if you are more into navigating river rapids, a whitewater kayak would be the best option.

What trip style do you want or need?

If you are going to be kayaking alone, then a lightweight solo kayak is for you. If on the other hand, you’re going on more social trips with friends and family on a lake or river, a tandem kayak will suit your needs best.

Compare what type of trips you want to do compared to what kind of kayak you should get. You can have your first kayak without worrying about durability compared to being very tough and durable compared to standing up paddling compared to sitting down.

What size kayak do you need?

A longer kayak is more stable than a shorter kayak, just like with any other object. A wider kayak is also more stable than one that isn’t as wide. A narrow kayak allows for easier paddling through the water compared to a wide kayak, which requires you to apply more force to the paddle, which can result in tiredness faster if you’re paddling for a long time.

So how much space should you have? If you plan on kayaking with kids or pets, make sure your kayak has enough room to take them with you. But don’t forget that having more space also means an increase in weight. You might want to consider getting a kayak that feels like it’s “sticking” to your body instead of feeling like it’s dragging you down with its added weight.

The length of time you’re planning on kayaking for is also another thing to take into account when selecting the right size kayak. If you’re only planning on going for a short trip, you can take a smaller kayak as it’s easier to maneuver and will allow you to focus more energy on paddling. However, if you’re planning to go out longer than the usual 3-hour trips, then you shouldn’t settle for anything less than a 13-foot kayak.

The recommended kayaking trip time falls between 3 to 8 hours. If you’re going on a multi-day kayaking trip, then you should consider getting a larger kayak that won’t require your muscles to be constantly working hard at paddling for a long period of time.

What kind of trips will you be having?

Surf Kayaking: If you enjoy rough water and catching waves with your kayak, then surfing will be right up your alley. These types of kayaks are shorter than normal kayaks, but still, require the same amount of energy to paddle. They’re designed with a flat bottom for straight tracking through waves, rather than turning quickly like recreational kayaks which have more rounded keels.

Recreational Kayaking: If you’re planning on doing shorter trips and want to be able to fish or do some casual paddling, then recreational kayaks will be the right choice for you. They typically have a keel at the bottom of the kayak to prevent tipping over as easily as surf kayaks. They’re longer than surf kayaks, which makes them long to paddle, but they’re still faster than touring kayaks. You can see recreational paddling in action while kayaking Death Valley.

Touring Kayaking: If you want to go long distances regularly, then a touring kayak will be your best choice. They have longer hulls and can carry more weight with ease. These boats are designed for the water conditions of the open ocean and all sorts of weather elements (hence the extra length), and they’re typically faster than other types of kayaks. They may seem bulky, but they’re very efficient for longer trips.

Once you have determined where you are going, then it’s time to figure out what kind of waters you will be paddling on. After you have decided on the type of water body, it is now time to start your search for a new kayak. With the points above in mind, you will be able to choose a kayak that is suited for your needs.