Shopping for your first kayak can be an overwhelming experience. Use the following guide to simplify the process and get you on your way to doing what matters most--on the water!
From size and design to accessories and the final price, there can be a number of considerations to keep in mind before laying down your hard earned cash on your first kayak.
What Type of Kayaking Do You Want to Do?
Before considering the type of paddling you are in for, let's review the three main types of kayaks available on the market. These are:
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Inflatable
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Folding
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Rigid
Rigid kayaks include plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber and wood designs. Wood is the least common and carbon fiber is the most expensive. Most kayakers tend to stick with either the plastic or fiberglass designs.
Though there is no one single kayak for every style of kayaking, the plastic, open cockpit kayak tends to be the most common. It can be used for a variety of one-day excursions, is stable, and offers ease of access.
Kayaks designed for long distance travel are generally longer and thinner in design, whereas those made for whitewater activity are shorter and wider.
Also, decide whether you intend to kayak one to two hours at a time, or are interested in longer, multiday excursions. Longer kayaking trips will require added cargo space and thereby are an important consideration in the design you will ultimately choose.
Also, passenger capacity should not escape your purview. Tandem kayaks designed for two are fast and stable, yet lack the maneuverability of a single-person kayak.
Portability
Depending on your ability to store and travel with your kayak, portability is another important consideration before making your choice. If storing is a major concern, than a quality inflatable kayak may be the best choice.
However, if you have the room and ability to easily transport a kayak and gear, than the possibilities are endless.
Options to Consider for Your Kayak
These include a wide array of possibilities and as with everything else, are dependent on the type of kayaking you are interested in doing. A quick overview of some of the more popular accessories include:
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Sprayskirt
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Bottle Holders
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Deck fittings
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Cockpit cover
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Flotation bags
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Rudder – though there exists a degree of contention as to the true necessity of a rudder on a kayak. Regardless, if you feel that one would allow you to focus less on maintain a straight line and more on your stroke, the scenery or a fishing rod—why not?
How Much?
Finally, there is the issue of cost. About how much might this purchase set you back? Well, if you find that a recreational plastic kayak will do just fine, you may be in for as little as $300. However, should your search for the right vessel lead you in the direction of the lighter more advanced designs, then prepare to part with anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000-plus for a fiberglass or composite design.
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