How to Buy the Perfect Kayak for You

Your Guide to buying the best Kayaks

Overview

Buying a kayak is an exciting experience, as it opens up a world of possibilities for exploring the waters. This Kayak buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the best decision for your needs. We'll cover the different types of kayaks, the features to consider, and the important factors to consider when shopping. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect kayak for your next adventure.

Key features

  1. Type of Kayak: There are several types of kayaks including recreational, touring, whitewater, inflatable, and fishing. Selecting the right type for your intended purpose is critical.
  2. Size: Kayak sizes vary from 8-18 feet and offer different weight capacities based on length. Consider the size of the kayak based on the number of people who will be on the kayak and your intended use.
  3. Material: Different kayaks are made from different materials including plastic, fiberglass, wood, inflatable, and composite materials. Consider the material of the kayak based on its durability, weight, and cost.
  4. Stability: Different types of kayaks offer different levels of stability. Recreational kayaks are often more stable than touring or fishing kayaks. Consider the type of water you will be on and the stability you require.
  5. Storage: Consider the storage needs of the kayak based on the number of people who will be on it and the gear that will need to be stored.
  6. Accessories: Consider the accessories that will be necessary for the kayak including paddles, life jackets, safety equipment, and seating.
  7. Cost: Consider the cost of the kayak and any necessary accessories. Different types of kayaks can vary in price based on material and size.

See the most popular Kayaks on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Portability: Kayaks are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for people who want to take their boats on vacation or to remote fishing spots.
  • Stability: Kayaks are a great option for those looking for stability on the water, as they boast a low center of gravity and are designed to be more stable than canoes.
  • Maneuverability: Kayaks have the ability to turn quickly and remain relatively agile in the water, making them great for exploring tight areas, such as around a lake’s shoreline or in a stream.
  • Amenities: Kayaks are often available with a wide range of amenities, such as comfortable seating, fishing rod holders, and storage compartments.
  • Price: Kayaks are available in a range of prices, depending on the type, size, and features desired.
  • Durability: Kayaks are built to be tough and durable, so they can handle the wear and tear of use in the water.

Cons

  • Cost - Kayaks can be expensive, with quality models ranging from $400 - $2000 depending on the material, size, and features.
  • Weight - Kayaks can be heavy, with some models being difficult to lift and transport on your own.
  • Storage - Kayaks can be bulky and take up a lot of space, making storage a challenge for those without a lot of room.
  • Maintenance - Kayaks require regular maintenance and care to avoid damage and wear.
  • Location - Kayaking requires access to safe, navigable waters such as rivers, lakes, or oceans.

Best alternatives

  1. Canoes - a light narrow boat, propelled by a paddle with two or more blades, that is used in sport or recreation
  2. Rafts - a flat-bottomed boat, usually made of rubber or plastic, with inflatable sides, used for floating down a river or other body of water
  3. Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) - an inflated, buoyant board that you stand on and use a paddle to navigate around a body of water
  4. Inflatable Boats - a boat that can be inflated or deflated with a pump for easy transport and storage

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Paddle - tool used to propel the kayak
  • Life jacket - personal flotation device that must be worn when kayaking
  • Spray skirt - a water-resistant cover that helps to protect the person in the kayak from water and wind
  • Kayak cart - a device that can be used to transport a kayak from one place to another
  • Pump - a device used to inflate and deflate the kayak
  • Dry bag - a waterproof bag used to store items while kayaking
  • Anchor - a device used to secure the kayak in a specific location
  • Rudder - a device attached to the stern of the kayak to help with steering
  • Kayak cover - a protective cover used to store and transport the kayak

Common questions

  1. What type of kayak should I buy?
    • The type of kayak you buy is primarily determined by what type of activities you plan to use it for. For instance, touring kayaks are longer and faster, suited for going long distances, and recreational kayaks are shorter and wider, suited for calmer waters.
  2. How much should I expect to spend?
    • Kayak prices can range from as little as $200 to over $3000. Prices can be affected by the size, material, and brand of the kayak.
  3. Do I need to buy safety gear?
    • Yes, it is important to always wear a personal flotation device while kayaking. Other safety gear can include a whistle, a map, and a paddle leash.
  4. What are the differences between sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks?
    • Sit-in kayaks are typically narrower and faster, and they provide more protection from the elements. Sit-on-top kayaks are wider and more stable, and they are much easier to get in and out of.
  5. How do I transport a kayak?
    • Kayaks can be transported by car, truck, or even bicycle. For car transport, roof racks can be used to secure the kayak on top of the vehicle. For truck transport, a bed rack can be used to secure the kayak in the back of the truck.

Trivia

In 2009, a kayaker in the United Kingdom set a world record for the longest distance covered in one day while kayaking. The kayaker, Steve Sparkes, paddled an astonishing 164 miles (264 km) in a single day in the River Severn. Sparkes, who has been kayaking since the age of 12, set the record as part of a charity event. Sparkes’s charity goal was to raise money for the RNLI, a charitable organization devoted to saving lives at sea. According to Sparkes, the record-breaking paddle was “quite an adventure” and “quite exhausting.” Sparkes’s record-breaking feat is a testament to the power of dedication and determination. Source: https://www.kayakcritic.net/british-man-sets-world-record-for-longest-kayaking-trip/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.