Buying a kayak can be an investment in fun and adventure. But to make sure you spend your money on the right boat, you need to ask a few questions about your kayaking plans, your budget, your ability and what in what type of kayak you're going to be most comfortable.
Where You'll Kayak
The type of kayak you buy will depend largely on what kind of water you plan to kayak in. A sea or "touring" kayak is longer and will hold more gear, so they're great for wilderness and excursions that are longer in duration. They'll survive the waters around Washington's San Juan Islands far better than a lightweight recreational kayak better suited to the usually calm waters of southwest Florida.
Structure and Design
For more experienced kayakers, there are considerations like "turning vs. tracking" as you make your decision. Many kayaks that track (go straight) well don't turn as easily. A skilled kayaker can overcome such limitations, but it's worth inquiring about the kayak's "tracking vs. turning" design (a good "turning" kayak is shorter and rounder on the bottom, but requires more effort to paddle in a straight line). If you plan to do some tricky whitewater kayaking, a good turning kayak is a must.
Cost
Don't be shy about buying a used kayak, though you never want to buy one sight unseen, as in an Internet purchase. Paddle Shack suggests that for a new plastic kayak, the cost could range from $300 to $1,500 as of March 2010. A new fiberglass boat could cost $1,500 to $3,000.
Size Considerations
Longer boats track better than shorter boats. In addition, longer boats tend to have more storage space. This is especially important when you consider the cockpit needs to be large enough to hold you comfortably, as well as your gear. Spend a little time in the kayak, moving your feet and legs inside it to make sure there's enough room, especially for your feet in the foot braces.
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