When buying a new kayak, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the right one for your needs. Here’s what to look for:

Type of Kayak

There are several types of kayaks, each designed for specific activities and environments. Sit-on-top kayaks are user-friendly and ideal for beginners or warmer climates, offering ease of entry and exit but less protection from the elements. Sit-in kayaks provide more shelter and are better suited for cooler weather and rougher waters, with increased control. Inflatable kayaks are portable and easy to store, making them a good choice for casual paddling, while folding kayaks offer compactness for travelers at a higher cost. Fishing kayaks come equipped with features like rod holders and extra storage for gear. Recreational kayaks are stable and maneuverable, perfect for calm waters, while touring or sea kayaks, which are longer and narrower, are designed for distance paddling and open water, providing better tracking and more storage. Whitewater kayaks are short and highly maneuverable, ideal for navigating fast-moving rivers and rapids.

Sit-on-top: Good for beginners and warmer climates. Easier to get in and out of, but you’re more exposed to the elements.
Sit-in: Offers more protection from the elements and better control in rough water. More suitable for colder environments.
Inflatable: Portable and easy to store. Best for casual paddling.
Folding: Compact and portable, great for travelers but typically more expensive.
Fishing Kayaks: Equipped with rod holders, storage for gear, and often a more stable base.

Purpose

Kayaks are designed for various purposes, each tailored to different water conditions and paddling experiences. Recreational kayaks are built for stability and ease of use, making them ideal for calm waters such as lakes and slow-moving rivers, perfect for casual paddlers. Touring or sea kayaks, with their longer, sleeker design, are intended for long-distance travel and open waters, offering better tracking, speed, and storage capacity for extended trips. Whitewater kayaks are short and highly maneuverable, specifically engineered to handle the quick turns and turbulent conditions of fast-moving rivers and rapids. Fishing kayaks are equipped with specialized features like rod holders and extra storage, catering to anglers who need a stable platform for casting and accessing gear. Each type of kayak serves a specific purpose, ensuring that paddlers have the right vessel for their chosen activity and environment.

Recreational: Ideal for calm waters like lakes and gentle rivers. They are stable and easy to maneuver.

Touring/Sea Kayaks: Longer and narrower, designed for longer distances and open water. They offer more storage and track better in a straight line.
Whitewater: Shorter and designed for maneuverability in fast-moving water.

Material

Kayaks are constructed from various materials, each offering distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the intended use. Plastic, particularly polyethylene, is the most common material, valued for its durability and affordability, though it tends to be heavier and more prone to UV damage over time. Composite materials, such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, are lighter and provide a smoother, faster ride with better performance, but they are more expensive and less resistant to impact. Inflatable kayaks are typically made from PVC or Hypalon, making them lightweight, portable, and easy to store, though they may not be as durable or rigid as hard-shell kayaks. Wooden kayaks, often handcrafted, offer a blend of beauty and performance, combining lightweight design with strength, but they require more maintenance. Each material affects the kayak’s weight, durability, performance, and cost, influencing the choice based on the paddler’s specific needs and preferences.

Plastic (Polyethylene): Durable and affordable, but heavier.
Composite (Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber): Lighter and faster, but more expensive and less durable against impact.
Inflatable PVC or Hypalon: Lightweight and easy to transport, but not as durable as hard-shell kayaks.

Size and Weight

Kayaks come in a range of sizes and weights, which significantly influence their performance, ease of handling, and suitability for different paddlers and environments. Longer kayaks, typically 12 feet or more, offer better tracking and speed, making them ideal for touring and covering long distances on open water, but they can be harder to maneuver in tight spaces and more challenging to transport. Shorter kayaks, usually under 12 feet, are more agile and easier to maneuver, particularly in rivers or whitewater conditions, but they may not track as well or move as quickly. The width of a kayak also plays a role, with wider kayaks providing more stability, which is beneficial for beginners or activities like fishing, while narrower kayaks are faster and better suited for experienced paddlers.

Weight is another important factor; heavier kayaks, often made of plastic, can be more durable but are harder to carry and transport, while lighter kayaks, made from composite materials, offer better performance and are easier to handle but tend to be more expensive and less impact-resistant. The right size and weight depend on the paddler’s strength, the type of water they’ll be navigating, and how they plan to use the kayak.

Length: Longer kayaks track better and move faster, but shorter kayaks are more maneuverable.
Width: Wider kayaks are more stable, but narrower ones are faster.
Weight: Consider the weight for ease of transport and storage.

Storage Capacity

The storage capacity of a kayak is a critical factor for paddlers who plan to carry gear, particularly on longer trips or expeditions. Kayaks designed for touring and sea kayaking typically offer ample storage, with watertight hatches in the bow and stern that can accommodate camping equipment, food, and other essentials, ensuring everything stays dry. Recreational kayaks may have limited storage, often just a small compartment or bungee cords on the deck for securing a dry bag, making them suitable for day trips where less gear is needed. Fishing kayaks prioritize accessible storage for tackle boxes, bait, and rods, often featuring additional space for coolers or live wells. The balance between storage capacity and the kayak’s performance is crucial; too much gear can affect stability and maneuverability, so paddlers must choose a kayak with storage that meets their needs without compromising on safety or performance.

Look for enough storage space if you plan to carry gear for day trips or multi-day excursions. Some kayaks have watertight storage compartments.

Comfort

Ensuring comfort when purchasing a kayak involves considering several key factors that affect your experience during extended periods on the water. The seat is one of the most important elements; it should be well-padded, adjustable, and offer proper lumbar support to prevent discomfort and fatigue, especially on long paddling trips. Adjustable footrests are also crucial, allowing you to find the right position for your legs, which helps maintain good posture and efficient paddling. The cockpit size should accommodate your body comfortably, offering enough room to move without feeling cramped, but not so large that it sacrifices control. For sit-on-top kayaks, consider models with cushioned or ergonomic seating areas that keep you elevated and dry. Additionally, the kayak’s overall design should match your body type and paddling style, as this impacts how easily you can maneuver and control the vessel without straining. Testing different kayaks in water before purchasing is the best way to ensure they meet your comfort needs.

Seat: Ensure the seat is comfortable and adjustable, especially for longer paddling sessions.
Footrests: Adjustable footrests are essential for comfort and proper paddling posture.

Stability

A kayak’s stability is a crucial factor that directly influences the paddler’s safety and comfort, particularly in different water conditions. Stability is generally categorized into primary and secondary stability, with primary stability referring to how steady the kayak feels when it’s at rest on calm water, which is important for beginners or those who prefer leisurely paddling. Secondary stability, on the other hand, refers to how stable the kayak remains when it’s tilted or on edge, which is vital for more experienced paddlers navigating rougher waters, such as in whitewater kayaking or open-sea conditions. A kayak with high primary stability is less likely to tip over easily, making it ideal for fishing or recreational use, while a kayak with good secondary stability can handle rough waves and tight maneuvers, crucial for more adventurous or skilled paddlers. Choosing a kayak with the right balance of stability ensures that it suits your intended activities and provides the confidence needed for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Primary Stability: Refers to how stable the kayak feels when you’re sitting still. Important for beginners.
Secondary Stability: How stable the kayak feels when it’s on edge, which is crucial for handling rough waters.

Maneuverability

A kayak’s maneuverability is an essential factor that determines how easily and effectively it can be steered and controlled, which is particularly important in environments that require quick turns and precise navigation. High maneuverability is crucial for activities such as whitewater kayaking, where the ability to swiftly change direction is necessary to navigate through rapids and avoid obstacles. Shorter kayaks generally offer better maneuverability, making them ideal for tight spaces like narrow rivers or winding waterways, while longer kayaks, though faster, are less agile and can be more challenging to turn sharply. Maneuverability also plays a significant role in situations where paddlers need to adjust their course frequently, such as when fishing or exploring intricate coastal areas. A kayak that is easy to maneuver enhances the paddler’s control and responsiveness, contributing to both safety and the overall enjoyment of the paddling experience, especially in dynamic or unpredictable water conditions.

Consider how easy it is to steer and control the kayak. This is particularly important for whitewater or narrow rivers.

Weight Capacity

A kayak’s weight capacity is a critical factor that determines how much weight the kayak can safely support, including the paddler, any passengers, and all gear or supplies. Exceeding a kayak’s weight capacity can lead to decreased stability, making the kayak prone to capsizing, and can significantly impact its performance, such as reducing its speed, maneuverability, and buoyancy. Ensuring that the total weight on the kayak is well within its capacity is particularly important for activities like touring or multi-day trips, where you need to carry additional gear such as camping equipment, food, and water. Additionally, considering weight capacity is crucial for maintaining comfort and safety, as an overloaded kayak can sit too low in the water, making it harder to paddle and more susceptible to taking on water. Selecting a kayak with an appropriate weight capacity ensures that it can handle the intended load without compromising performance, stability, or safety, thereby providing a more secure and enjoyable paddling experience.

Ensure the kayak can support your weight plus any gear you plan to carry.

Transport and Storage

The ease of transporting and storing a kayak is an important consideration that affects both the practicality of owning a kayak and the overall paddling experience. A kayak that is difficult to transport or store can be cumbersome, making it less likely that you’ll use it frequently. Lightweight kayaks or those with features like carrying handles are easier to load onto a vehicle, carry to the water, and store in small spaces, which is especially important if you need to transport the kayak alone or have limited storage options at home. Inflatable or folding kayaks offer the most convenience in terms of portability and storage, as they can be packed into a compact size and easily stowed in a closet or the trunk of a car. On the other hand, larger, heavier kayaks may require roof racks, trailers, or ample storage space, adding to the complexity and potential cost of ownership. Considering how easy it is to transport and store your kayak ensures that it fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, making it more accessible and enjoyable to use regularly.

Consider how you will transport and store the kayak. Folding or inflatable kayaks are easier to store, while rigid ones may require more space.

Price

Price is a significant factor when purchasing a kayak, as it often reflects the quality, materials, features, and intended use of the kayak. A higher-priced kayak typically offers better performance, durability, and comfort, incorporating advanced materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber, which are lighter and more responsive but come at a premium cost. However, more expensive kayaks may also include specialized features, such as enhanced storage options, custom seating, or accessories tailored to specific activities like fishing or long-distance touring. Conversely, budget-friendly kayaks, often made from plastic or inflatable materials, may be more accessible for beginners or casual paddlers but might sacrifice some durability, comfort, or performance. It’s essential to balance your budget with your needs and paddling goals, ensuring that the kayak you choose offers the best value for your money without compromising on the key features that are important to your experience. Ultimately, the right kayak should meet your requirements and provide a satisfying, long-term investment within your financial means.

Set a budget and find a kayak that offers the best balance of features for your needs within that budget.

Accessories

When purchasing a kayak, a variety of accessories can enhance safety, comfort, and convenience on the water. Paddles are the most essential accessory, available in different materials, lengths, and designs to match your kayaking style. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are crucial for safety, offering different levels of buoyancy and mobility. Spray skirts are useful for sit-in kayaks, helping to keep water out of the cockpit in rough conditions. Dry bags and storage containers protect gear from getting wet and are vital for longer trips. For fishing kayaks, rod holders, fish finders, and tackle storage solutions can be added to optimize the kayak for angling. Roof racks or kayak carts make transporting your kayak easier, while anchors and paddle leashes help secure the kayak and gear during use. Additionally, comfort-enhancing accessories such as cushioned seats, backrests, or adjustable footrests can make paddling more enjoyable, especially on extended outings. These accessories can be customized based on your specific needs and kayaking activities, improving both the functionality and overall experience.

Paddles, life vests, spray skirts, and other accessories might be required. Check if they are included or if you need to purchase them separately.

Test Before Buying

Testing a kayak before purchasing it is highly recommended. Trying out a kayak on the water allows you to assess its comfort, stability, maneuverability, and overall fit, ensuring that it meets your personal needs and preferences. Each kayak performs differently based on its design, and factors like seat comfort, ease of paddling, and how well it tracks can only be fully understood through firsthand experience. Testing also helps you determine if the kayak suits your body type and paddling style, and it can prevent potential issues such as discomfort or difficulty handling the kayak in certain conditions. This hands-on approach provides confidence in your purchase, ensuring that you choose a kayak that will provide a satisfying and enjoyable experience on the water.

If possible, test different models on the water to see which one feels the most comfortable and suits your needs.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a kayak that matches your needs and ensures a more enjoyable experience on the water. Enjoy your paddle! And, if paddling down the Baraboo River in Wisconsin, be sure to download our Tour Buddy mobile app!

Kayak Buyer’s Guide

Lazy Beaver 2024 Update

Paddles Up: A Guide for Exploring the Baraboo River