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July 26, 2022 by Ed Wrobbel Leave a Comment

Kayaking vs Canoeing: 4 Important Differences

canoe on the water

We’re right in the middle of summer and that means there is still plenty of sunny days on the way. You’ll have all winter to spend relaxing inside so start making some plans to get outside, get active, and get out on the open water.

That begs the question: should I use a canoe or a kayak?

That is a tough one. Firstly, you really can’t go wrong with either. Both are comfortable, are relaxing, and can get you exactly where you need to go. There are, however, a few key differences between the two that you should be aware of.

1. Seating Design and Comfort

Kayaks, typically, are closed design and canoes have a much more open layout. Keep in mind, if you’re a much bigger kayaking fan but enjoy having plenty of open space, you’ll be better suited for one of the sit-on-top kayaks — it all depends on your personal preference. Conversely, canoes are much larger, designed for an even more comfortable trip, and great for paddling with a friend.

2. Amount of Paddlers

Speaking of paddling with a friend, the amount of people you’re taking out on the water with you matters, as well. If your group of friends is more of a kayaking bunch, that’s a great option. But if you don’t have enough kayaks for everyone to take their own, you’re better off with a canoe or two — maybe even a nice mix of kayaks and canoes! Canoes are specifically designed for tandem purposes and the bigger one you get, the more people you’ll be able to spend the day with.

3. Canoe and Kayak Storage

If you’re planning on spending hours on the water on a hot summer day, you’re going to need quite a few items. No paddling trip is complete without some cold beverages, snacks, and a big bottle of sunscreen. Plus, you’ll need to keep your cell phone, wallet, and any safety items you’re bringing along dry and secure during the day. Certain kayaks have compartments that are perfect for storing all those items you want to safely keep from the water and canoes are often big enough to keep everything – even coolers and travel bags – with you in the seat.

4. Mobility in Water

Again, it depends on what type of day you’re hoping to have. Both are great for relaxing and slowly floating across the water. But if you’re hoping for a more calming trip, canoes are a little more stable. Kayaks are great for quick movements, turns, and maneuvering around trees, other paddlers, and other obstacles. As far as speed is concerned, both kayaks and canoes can reach the same speed – it just depends on paddle technique and how hard you’re paddling.

Hopefully, you have a better idea of which to choose. But rest assured, you’re going to have a lot of fun either way. And what about when you’re done paddling for the day? Luckily, both canoes and kayaks can be easily stored while not in use and during the offseason. There are canoe and kayak racks that are perfect for safe and convenient storage.

If you’re thinking about purchasing some of the best kayak storage racks and canoe lifts around, contact DockCraft to learn more about The Docksider — a dock rack and lift for both kayaks and canoes, as well as paddleboards and SUPs.

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Filed Under: Blog, Kayak Tagged With: canoe, Kayak

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