Kayak Guide

Kayaks allow access on water where other boats cannot go.

Kayaking has grown to be an increasingly popular water sport. There are a multitude of kayak styles and models, and choosing a boat depends on your paddling style and how you intend to use it.

Recreational Kayaks

These boats are for those intending to stay on calmer water in a stable environment. They run shorter--between 9 and 11 feet--and often include sit-on-top styles.

Touring/Sea Kayaks

Touring/sea kayaks are designed longer and slimmer for more effective movement through bigger or rougher water. These boats run anywhere from 14 to 20 feet and are equipped with bulkheads, hatches, rudders and other features to assist in long-distance paddling. With a slimmer design, they move faster but provide less stability.

Whitewater Kayaks

Whitewater kayaks are relatively short and squat, with rounded hulls and flatter bottoms. The compact design allows for quick turns and righting of the boat in rapid or whitewater conditions. A snug fit is essential for boat control as whitewater kayaking can be a fast-paced, high-intensity experience.

Performance Kayaks

Performance kayaks are recreational or touring/sea kayaks designed with performance materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, airalite or kevlar. These advanced materials cut down on weight making transport easier, and allowing for greater speed.

Racing Kayaks

These boats can be up to 20 feet long but extremely narrow. With a small cockpit, compact hull, and rounded keel, they are extremely unstable in exchange for speed. Usually made of performance materials, these are specialty boats made for racing as opposed to recreational use.

References

• "The Kayak Companion;" Joe Glickman; 2003
• "The Complete Sea Kayaker's Handbook;" Shelley Johnson; 2002
• Roguepaddler.com