{"id":2515,"date":"2019-02-04T10:23:34","date_gmt":"2019-02-04T15:23:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dockcraft.com\/?p=2515"},"modified":"2022-01-27T17:22:02","modified_gmt":"2022-01-27T22:22:02","slug":"what-type-of-kayak-should-i-buy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dockcraft.com\/what-type-of-kayak-should-i-buy\/","title":{"rendered":"What Type Of Kayak Should I Buy"},"content":{"rendered":"

February 3, 2019 | By Ed Wrobbel, DockCraft Industries LLC<\/p>

So, you\u2019ve decided to make the plunge; and purchase your own kayak!<\/p>

Then you go to your local sporting goods store or you shop online only\nto see the vast selection of kayaks available. \nNow what?  How do I decide?<\/p>

First, you need to decide if you will be kayaking on Flat water or Whitewater\nrapids.<\/h2>

If you chose Whitewater, I would venture to think that you already know\nenough to select the kayak of your dreams!   Therefore, we will concentrate more on Kayaks\nfor Flat water adventures.<\/p>

Flat water kayaks are grouped into two main categories:<\/p>

Sit-On-Top Kayaks and Sit-In Kayaks. <\/p>

\"choosing<\/a><\/figure>

Sit-On-Top Kayaks have seats molded in the top of the Kayak\nwhere you sit.  Your whole body is\nexposed to the sun and water \u2013 You will get wet!  These are great for people with long\nlegs.  If you (and your pet) intend to go\nswimming; these kayaks are easier to get in and out of than Sit -In Kayaks.<\/p>

Sit-In – Kayaks have a seat within the shell of the Kayak.   Most\ntypically, you sit in a cockpit while your legs are surrounded by the shell of\nthe Kayak.  They are a bit more difficult\nto get in and out of than Sit-On – Top Kayaks if swimming.  However, the cockpits tend to be roomier than\none would imagine.<\/p>

Next, types of Kayaks:<\/h2>

Recreational Kayaks \u2013<\/h3>

These are designed for the casual paddler interested in recreational activities\non a lake or flatwater stream. These kayaks are characterized by having a\nlarger cockpit opening for easy entry and exit and a wider beam \/ width (27\u201330\ninches) for more stability on the water. They are generally less than twelve\nfeet in length. The weight of these kayaks typically range from 40 to 60 lbs.<\/p>

The design makes them slower than a longer boat would be, but lighter,\nmore maneuverable, easier to handle in and out of the water, and less\nexpensive. Due to the wider hull, recreational kayaks will not track (maintain\na straight line) as well as longer, narrower models.<\/p>

Touring Kayaks \u2013<\/h3>

Sea \/ touring kayaks are built to stroll through water for longer miles.\nThe designs provide better speed and gliding experiences for the longer\ndistance, as well as extra storage space for carry-ons.<\/p>

These Kayaks are typically 12 to 20 feet in length with a beam \/ width\nof 18 to 24 inches. They typically weight between 55 and 75 lbs.<\/p>

This design tends to trade off maneuverability and stability for speed\nand performance.<\/p>

Tandem Kayaks \u2013<\/h3>

Tandem Kayaks are typically 13 to 20 foot in length with a beam \/ width\nof 30 to 34 inches.<\/p>

As there is more surface area in contact with the water, these kayaks\ntake a little more energy to paddle.<\/p>

Typical weight of these kayaks range from 60 to 85 lbs.<\/p>

Pro\u2019s:<\/p>