Buying a kayak can be confusing, that’s for sure. Before you buy a kayak there is one important decision that you need to make: how are you going to use it? Are you interested in paddling whitewater rapids, lakes, ponds, or the open ocean? Are you going out solo or with a partner? All of this needs to be addressed before you pull the trigger and make an investment into your kayak. Beginners should look for kayaks that combine versatile handling with good stability and reasonable weight.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
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Sit-On-Top kayaks or Open Top kayaks allow an individual to sit on the top of the kayak, hence their name. They are a great selection for kayakers who enjoy fishing or diving. They are also an ideal selection for beginner kayakers.
Touring kayaks or Sea kayaks are perfect for individuals who enjoy kayaking long distances. The design of Touring or Sea kayaks are long and lean for better tracking (the kayaks ability to travel in a straight line), and quick travel over long distances.
Whitewater kayaks are different from the other boats that comprise kayak types. Whitewater kayaks are designed to handle moving water more efficiently. Their design is at the opposite end of the design spectrum in comparison to the aforementioned Touring/Sea kayaks. Whitewater kayaks are short and maneuverable and recommended for experienced riders.
The name “Tandem” may just give away what this type of kayak is designed for. Just in case you don’t know, Tandem kayaks are two-seated boats that are perfect for families or couples. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, Tandem kayaks can be used by any level kayaker.
- Plastic boats are more durable.
- Offer protection on rocky shorelines.
- Most kayaks are constructed of polyethylene, which is a flexible, durable plastic that offers high-impact resistance.
- Polyethylene is perfect for, and commonly found, in the construction of whitewater kayaks.
- Airalite Thermoplastic: Another plastic material commonly found in plastic constructed kayaks. Is stiffer and lighter than polyethylene.
- Airalite Thermoplastic is typically used in the construction of touring kayaks.
- Fiberglass boats are lighter and faster than plastic boats.
- Can be repaired if damaged during use.
- Plastic boats are generally less expensive than fiberglass constructed kayaks.
Kayak Paddles can be the difference between a great kayaking experience and a terrible one. It is highly recommended that you understand the differences between the two types of paddles that we discuss here. Also, make it a priority to look at a few models before you settle on one. Lastly, do not hesitate to invest in an extra paddle to take with you on every excursion, even though you may deem it unnecessary. It will often prove invaluable.
- Generally very light and long.
- Have Asymmetrical blades.
- Can be constructed from a variety of materials.
- Usually made up of two pieces that can be broken down for storage and/or travel.
- Two-piece construction allows the blade position to be customized.
- Stronger, shorter, and more durable than touring paddles.
- Blades are symmetrical or asymmetrical.
- Usually built in one-piece for rapid, powerful strokes.
- One-piece construction does not offer any adjustment options.
Unless you’re a calm water kayaker, a sprayskirt is an essential piece of equipment that you’ll want to invest in. Sprayskirts are designed to fit snugly around your waist and stretch over the cockpit of the kayak to prevent water from seeping into the kayak. The design of the skirt is also to keep water out of the boat if it capsizes. If you need to get out of the kayak while underwater, commonly called a “wet exit”, the sprayskirt will pull away from the cockpit and allow you to surface without becoming entangled.
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Without question the most important piece of equipment for kayakers. Always, and we mean always, wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when kayaking. A kayak life vest or PFD may not be the most attractive item you will ever wear, but as the saying goes, “better to be safe than sorry.” Below we outline some things to keep in mind when buying a PFD.
Your kayaking PFD should:
- Be a highly visible color, preferably with reflective trim.
- Have a variety of adjustable straps at the waist, shoulders, and arms to provide a proper and comfortable fit.
- Ride comfortably over your sprayskirt and be adjustable to fit snugly over swimsuits, dry suits, or wet suits.
- Feature well-cut neck and armholes for good mobility.
- Have enough pockets and attachment points for all equipment, such as sunscreen, water bottle, compass, etc.
Most kayakers prefer Type III vests because they are considered to be the most comfortable, allow the maximum amount of freedom of movement, and because they are designed specifically for water sports activities such as kayaking. Type V vests are also a common choice among kayakers because they are the least bulky of all vests and are ideal for continual wear.
Female kayakers can also look into gender-specific PFDs, which many PFD manufacturers are now offering. This will ensure the best fit for the body type.
The proper kayaking apparel can make your kayak adventure much sweeter. An important question that many first-time kayakers will have is, “how do I know if I am adequately prepared for kayaking excursion?” The answer to this question can be found by following the following rule of thumb for dressing for a kayak trip: If you’re not willing to fully submerge yourself in the water at the beginning of the day, you’re not adequately prepared. Also, bear in mind that you must dress for the temperature of the water, not the temperature of the air.
Kayak wetsuits are different than those that can be found in a dive/scuba shop. A wetsuit is a neoprene bodysuit that keeps out the chill of cold water and protects against hypothermia. A kayak wetsuit is designed differently than a typical wetsuit in that the neoprene is thinner and usually sold as a one-piece, tank-top style with long pants. The style of kayak wetsuits is this way because it allows your legs and core to stay warm while allowing your arms and shoulders to maintain full freedom of motion.
For additional protection from the cold weather elements, kayakers also can invest in waterproof drysuits. Dry suits are loose-fitting, insulated, nylon garments worn over the top of clothing. They are designed to keep water out completely, often having Gore-Tex linings and rubberized gaskets to keep water out and heat in. It is recommended that you wear quick-drying, moisture wicking clothing under your dry suit.
Similar to dry suits, dry tops are waterproof and made from nylon. They are typically worn over a shirt and feature cuffs and gaskets to keep water out. They are not usually insulated, so keep this in mind when deciding if you want to purchase a dry top.
Semi-Dry Tops are waterproof garments that feature fitted neck and wrist gaskets. They are generally the most breathable and roomy garment with adjustable waist closures and taped seams to keep water out.
Just like a PFD, always wear a kayak helmet when you go kayaking. You can be the most experienced kayaker in the world, but one unfortunate incident and you’ll be regretting your decision to embark on your excursion without a helmet.
Kayak helmets are designed with functionality in mind and designed obviously to protect your melon! In the last few years, style has crept its way into the minds of kayak helmet designers, but the simple fact remains that kayak helmets are specifically designed to protect your head. The most popular style is a solid color, baseball-style helmet with a slight brim.
Okay, so the name of this pretty much gives it away, but why should you invest in one? Dry bags are not essential, but rather they may simply be a preference among kayakers, particularly those who take long excursions. Dry bags will keep all of your belongings dry when you’re in the water.
Dry Bags can be found in several types, including compression and regular dry bags. Compression bags are designed to hold larger items like sleeping bags to be compressed for packing. Some feature manual or automatic air valves to expel air by compressing the bag and tightly.
Let’s be honest here, you never know what can happen when you’re out on a trip. Keeping this point in mind, you need to be sure to pack a first aid kit with basic medical supplies and an emergency kit. The emergency kit that you pack should expand as the distance of the trip lengthens and the remoteness of the destination increases.
An emergency kit should include (dependent on the distance and venue):
- Map
- Compass
- Drinking Water
- High-Energy Food
- Flashlight with Batteries
- Whistle
- Extra Pair of Glasses or Contact Lenses (if you wear them)
- Sunscreen
- Emergency Shelter
- Materials for Building a Fire
Tags: Buying Guides, Kayak Equipment, Kayak Paddles, Kayak Safety, Kayaks
