How to choose the right kayak

Purchasing a kayak can be a wonderful experience, but also a little overwhelming with so many types and models available. We hope this guide will help educate you on the different types of kayaks and assist you in determining which type of kayak is right for you.

Throughout this guide we will discuss the different types of kayaks, the materials used to construct the kayaks, and which kayak will be best for you - based on your ability and the type of kayaking you wish to do.

When planning your kayak purchase you also want to budget for these additional items for a fun and safe time on the water:

• PFD or Paddle Vest
• Kayak Paddle
• Paddling Safety Kit
• Kayak Carrier - for safe transport of your kayak to your kayak destination

General Kayak Traits

Before diving into the specifics such as kayak types and kayak construction let's discuss some general kayak traits.

• Wider kayaks are more stable while narrower kayaks are less stable. Stability on the water will provide beginner paddlers more confidence on the water. For an experienced paddler the stability of the kayak may not be as much of a concern.
• Shorter kayaks are easier to maneuver but may not track as straight while longer kayaks will track better but are more difficult to maneuver.
• Longer kayaks have increased cargo capacity and more hatches and deck space making them ideal for longer trips or overnight trips. Shorter kayaks do not have as much cargo capacity and deck space and are best suited to shorter trips or day use.
• Shorter kayaks tend to be lighter, easier to transport, and easier to store while longer kayaks tend to be heavier, depending on materials and construction, and can be more difficult to transport and store. Don't worry we have lots of different transport and storage solutions no matter what length of kayak you choose.

Different types of kayaks

Though there are many different styles and types of kayaks available. We will discuss the 4 main types of kayaks: recreational, touring, fishing, and sit-on-top kayaks all of which we will discuss throughout this buying guide.

Recreational Kayaks

If you plan on shorter outings just a handful of times each kayak season then you may be interested in a recreational kayak. Recreational kayaks typically start at a lower price and unless you plan on making a larger investment a recreational kayak may have more to offer a beginner paddler.

Recreational type kayaks are usually 12 feet in length or less which makes them easier to steer and maneuver. They also tend to be wider which makes a recreational boat more stable especially for a beginner paddler. The larger cockpit typically found on a recreational kayak makes getting in and out of the boat much easier, especially if you have mobility issues. These types of kayaks are best suited for use on smaller lakes and slow moving rivers and creeks.

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Touring Kayaks

Touring kayaks are a step up when it comes to performance, features, cargo space, construction and material. These kayaks are intended for longer adventures on a lake or ocean.

Touring kayaks can be broken down into two categories: day touring and touring. Day touring kayaks tend to be 11-15 feet in length and are great for an afternoon paddle, a full day of touring, or an overnight trip. Touring kayaks that are 15 feet or longer are usually referred to as sea kayaks or expedition kayaks and are good for single day trips all the way up to week long excursions.

Touring kayaks typically come equipped with additional features such as additional enclosed storage space for bringing along extra gear and self rescue straps which are used in case of a wet exit.

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Fishing Kayaks

Fishing kayaks are extremely stable kayaks which are popular not only among anglers but also photographers. Their increased stability is due to their width and flat hull shape.

While there are sit-in fishing kayaks the preferred style is a sit-on-top fishing kayak which allows you to easily maneuver on the kayak, get in and out of the kayak, and even stand up while casting.

Sit-on-top fishing kayaks such as the Riot Mako 10 and Mako 12 features a pedal propulsion system that allows you to propel the kayak through the water while casting your rod or snapping pictures of wildlife. These kayaks are also equipped with a fold-able, adjustable seat, hand controller rudder, and plenty of tracks mounted to the top of the kayak for adding accessories such as fish finders, lights, cameras, and more.

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Sit-on-Top Kayaks

Sit-on-top kayaks are similar to recreational kayaks in that they are best suited for day use and are typically wider and more stable than a touring kayak. The difference is that rather than sitting inside the kayak you are sitting on top of the kayak. Sit-on-top kayaks are usually either equipped with a seat which is molded into the plastic or a more comfortable adjustable foam back rest.

Since you are sitting on top of the kayak you, and especially your legs, are more exposed to sun, wind, and water spraying up onto the deck. You will definitely want to dress for the weather! Sit-on-top kayaks are best used on warmer days or in warmer water.

Sit-on-top kayaks have the benefit of being extremely easy to get in and out of and you will not feel that your legs are cramped as you have the full ability to adjust how your legs are sitting.

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Kayak Materials and Construction

Kayaks can be constructed of different materials and through different processes. The three most common types of materials and construction are rotomolded polyethylene, thermoformed ABS, and composite layups.

Rotomolded Polyethelene Construction

Rotomolded Polyethelene kayaks are made using a rotomolding process which involves pouring polyethelene powder into a two part mold which is rotated as it is heated in a huge oven. As the powder melts it coats the inside of the mold, so these kayaks have decks and hulls of the same colour, being all one piece. It is common for these types of kayaks to be marbled by combining different colours of polyethylene powder.

Pros

• Less expensive
• More Durable
• Impact resistant

Cons

• Generally heavier than similar sized thermoformed or composite kayaks
• More difficult to repair (most adhesives don't stick to polyethylene)
• Kayak flexes while paddling (doesn't respond as well as a stiff boat)
• Deforms if left stored in the sun
• Many small scratches over time may lead to "fuzz" developing which creates drag

Thermoformed ABS Construction

Thermoformed boats typically use higher quality plastics than rotomolded ones. The polyethylene pellets are extruded into a flat sheet and sandwiched into a multi-layer material. Usually the outer layer is acrylic, which has excellent UV resistance and gives the boat it's glossy, richly coloured exterior. The next layer gives structural integrity to the boat and is often a form of high impact ABS. The sheet is heated and then stretched over the mold where a vacuum process sucks it down into the fine detailing. After it is cooled, the hull is trimmed, assembled and detailed.

Pros

• Excellent UV protection
• Lighter and stiffer than rotomolded boats, less expensive than composite
• Glossy, hard exterior - more abrasion resistance than rotomolded boats
• Won't distort in the sun
• Easy to repair with fiberglass cloth

Cons

• Requires more maintenance and proper storage
• Not quite as stiff or light as composite boats

Composite Construction

Composite kayaks are made of fabric such as fiberglass or kevlar (or a hybrid) bonded by resin. Vacuum bagging sucks all excess resin out so the kayak is as light as possible. They often have cores inserted in the laminate to stiffen the boats. The glossy outside is either a clear coat or a coloured gel coat which protects the laminate.

Pros

• Usually the lightest weight boats
• The stiffest types of boats, so best performing
• Easiest to repair
• Longest lasting

Cons

• Usually expensive, especially kevlar, due to hand labour
• Don't take hard impact as well as plastic boats

Questions to ask yourself when shopping for a kayak

So now that you know a bit about the different types of kayaks available here are 5 key questions to ask yourself while shopping for a kayak. The answers to these questions will help to determine which type of kayak is best suited for the where you plan to use your kayak, how often you will be using your kayak, and for you as a paddler. Whether you are just starting the search for a kayak or are ready to make your purchase where are staff can assist you in finding the right kayak for you. We display a wide variety of kayaks at both our Edmonton store locations with a full range of PFDs, Paddles, Safety Kits, and other accessories also available.

1. How often do you plan on using the kayak? A handful of times each season? Every weekend throughout the season?
2. Where will you be using your kayak? Do you plan on kayaking on lakes, creeks, rivers, or oceans?
3. Why or what are you kayaking for? Fishing, fun, exercise?
4. What is your budget? Keeping in mind you will also need a PFD, Paddle, and Safety Kit.
5. How will you transport and store your kayak? This may actually change the type of boat you actually decide to go with

Getting fitted to your new kayak

One of the most important things to think about when purchasing a kayak is comfort. Since you may be out paddling for a few hours at a time it is important that the kayak be comfortable and fit you well. A comfortable seat is important as you will be sitting the entire time but leg room is also important. Most kayaks are equipped with adjustable foot rests which add to the comfort level of the kayak.

It is important to sit in a kayak before making your final purchasing decision. This allows you to make sure the boat is the right fit. Both of our store locations display a wide variety of kayaks allowing you to sit in the kayak and be properly fitted before making the final purchase decision.