Kayaks come in many types, each one suited for a particular purpose. Some kayaks are built for touring through large, flat bodies of water, while others are meant for hurtling down winding rivers full of rocks. Some kayaks are more suited for experienced users, while others are made for beginners. Whether you are a veteran whitewater kayaker or a beginner who wants to paddle out to the middle of a lake for some fishing, you will find what you need.
Step 1
Choose a short, slim kayak for river and whitewater kayaking. These turn more easily, which enable advanced maneuvering among the rocks and rapids. Whitewater kayaks are often made of incredibly durable materials, such as kevlar, to withstand impacts with rocks.
Choose a long, wide kayak for touring or fishing. These are more stable and provide more storage space for snacks and fishing supplies. They track straighter than whitewater kayaks but are harder to turn.
Step 2
Consider your skill level. If you are just beginning to kayak, you should consider a long, wide craft for use in a calm lake. As you gain skill and confidence in controlling the kayak, you can buy a more maneuverable one and practice with it on a lake before moving to a stream and, eventually, rivers with rapids.
Step 3
Choose a folding or inflatable kayak if you do not have a lot of space to store one or cannot afford kayak racks for your car. Typical kayaks are 9 feet to 13 feet in length and can present a challenge to transport and store. If these are issues, a folding or inflatable kayak can collapse, and you can transport and store and more easily. Folding and inflatable kayaks are still quite durable, and you can use them for all purposes.
Step 4
Look at the prices of the kayaks that you are considering and determine what you can afford. Make sure you save room in your budget for an extra paddle, a life jacket and any other accessories that you might need.
New kayaks start around $200 and can cost upwards of $2,000. A good life jacket will cost you $30 to $50. A kayak paddle will cost between $50 and $200. Roof racks for your car start at $100 and can cost upwards of $500.
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