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Introduction to Kayaks and Canoes
In the not to distant past, if you spoke of a kayak you were referring to one of two boats; a sea kayak which was approximately 16’-17’ long and 21”-22” wide with a small cockpit, or a whitewater boat, which was significantly shorter and wider, and made to turn easily.
The world of kayaks is no longer this simple. Among flat water touring boats there are at least five categories of boats:
- Recreational Kayaks
- Performance Recreational Kayaks
- Sit-On-Top Kayaks
- Transitional Touring Kayaks
- Performance Sea Kayaks
This list does not include what would probably be a sixth category. In the last few years Native Watercraft has introduced a boat that is best described as a hybrid of a canoe and a kayak. In a nutshell, the boat looks like a small canoe at a glance, however, the seating is lower like a kayak, and the boat is paddled with a double-bladed paddle.
OK, now the big question. Which boat would be best for you?
Well, let me say this from the beginning; nothing helps in the decision making process like putting a boat on the water. We do our best to regularly offer opportunities to demo boats. It is by far the fastest way to figure out what you like, and what best fits you and your needs. What sounds like a foreign language in the store, suddenly becomes intelligible information during a demo. The ability to experience these different boats as we talk about them is invaluable.
Having said this, here are some general descriptions to help you begin to think through things.
Recreational Kayaks
Recreational kayaks are generally 9’-12’ long and approximately 30” wide. They usually are flat-bottomed boats, no bulk head (maybe one in the stern) and minimal rigging on the deck. Usually economy is the key here.
Performance Recreational Kayaks
Performance Recreational Kayaks are typically the same length and width of basic recreational kayaks. The difference usually lies in the shape of the hull and in some of the outfitting. A boat in this category might have a multi-chined hull which makes the boat more maneuverable. It might also have a bulkhead in the rear, creating a dry storage area, but also giving the boat some flotation. Finally, a boat in this category might have some additional outfitting on the deck.
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
Transitional Touring Kayaks
Performance Sea Kayaks
Canoe or Kayak?
Good question. Currently kayaks are on the throne and getting most of the attention. However, just because it’s currently the kayaks day doesn’t mean its always been that way, nor will it always be that way. There are some pros and cons to both. Consider the following:
The Kayak
- Kayaks have a lower profile on the water and are therefore less vulnerable to the wind.
- Kayaks are paddled with a double-bladed paddle, meaning you have a blade in the water almost twice as much as with a single-bladed canoe paddle.
- To most peoples surprise a kayak in most cases is more stable than a canoe because of a lower center of gravity.
The Canoe
- The canoe is big, and roomy, and is an easy boat for kids to play from.
- The canoe is tough to beat if you need to take the kids, the family dog, and the kitchen sink.
- There is a romanticism that comes with the canoe that is attractive
The world of kayaks can be rather intimidating. Among flat water boats alone there are at least five, if not six categories to sift through (this isn’t even including canoes) as you try and figure out what is the best boat for you or your family. We have been in the boat business for over ten years, and have the experience to help you wade through all the options.
One very important aspect of this process is the opportunity to demo a selection of boats in order to make as well informed a decision as possible. We offer regular opportunities to do just this.
The selection of a kayak is just the beginning. There is then the matter of what equipment is essential as well as what might be recommended to enhance your paddling experience.
We also have the experience to help you acquire the basic skills that you need pursue the sport of kayaking safely and enjoyable.
Other important questions might be how to transport the boat safely, as well as good places to paddle locally.
Too consider a canoe or kayak purchase is to consider a commitment to a new sport or hobby, not just simply the purchase of a piece of equipment. It involves information, experience, and skills that are unique to a local paddlesport shop. As you consider exploring the world of paddlesports, please consider stopping by our shop and letting us help you to enter this world that has for over a decade been a part of our world and which we love to share.
