Kayak Reviews And Buying Guide

Whether you are planning to paddle your kayak for only a few times or you are planning to use it for extended overnight trips, you would want it to glide down the river or the ocean with little effort. But buying a kayak for the first time can be challenging especially with various models that vary in size, weight, and features sold in the market. Without a clear understanding of the different types of kayaks available, you may end up regretting your purchase. So how about you start with a guide?

Popular Sellers

Point 65 Martini GTX Solo Yellow
3 Reviews
Point 65 Martini GTX Solo Yellow
  • Swedish design & engineering
  • Solo configuration; front section paired with back section = solo kayak.
  • Modular -splits apart for easy storage, Carrying and transport
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
26,722 Reviews
Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
  • Comfortable For Anyone: Kayak Includes An Adjustable Inflatable Seat With Backrest; Cockpit Designed For Comfort And Space
  • Dimensions: Inflated Size 10 Feet 3 X 3 Feet X 1 Feet 8 Inch; Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 Pounds
  • Directional Stability: Removable Skeg For Directional Stability
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak, K2: 2-Person, Red
5,793 Reviews
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, Professional Series Inflatable Fishing Kayak, K2: 2-Person, Red
  • Super tough laminate PVC with polyester core: Light weight and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight
  • High pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with high pressure spring loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation
  • Includes 2 removable skegs for deep and shallow water, 2 floor mounted footrests, 2 integrated recessed fishing rod holders, 2 adjustable bucket seats
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air-Pump, Grey/Blue (68306EP)
29,876 Reviews
Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air-Pump, Grey/Blue (68306EP)
  • The Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling
  • The bright green color and sporty graphics make the kayak highly visible in the water
  • Two 86 inch aluminum paddles and an Intex high output pump for easy inflation and deflation
Heavy Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit for Above-Ground Pool Liner Repair; Glue and Patch Inflatables; Boat; Raft; Kayak; Air Beds; Inflatable Mattress Repair (Light Grey)
723 Reviews
Heavy Duty Vinyl Repair Patch Kit for Above-Ground Pool Liner Repair; Glue and Patch Inflatables; Boat; Raft; Kayak; Air Beds; Inflatable Mattress Repair (Light Grey)
  • This vinyl repair kit from Pool Above includes eight (8) round heavy duty patches, each measuring 2 inches across. Constructed of 1100 denier polyester canvas fabric - extrusion-coated on both sides with waterproof, air proof flexible colored plastic for color-match and superior adhesion.
  • Glue pack includes 1 fl oz (30ml) tube of vinyl adhesive. Package includes an applicator and two (2) thin transparent vinyl sheets for lightweight repairs. Each sheet measures 9.5cm x 20cm.
  • Ideal uses include patching pool liners - inside or outside of the swimming pool. In dry conditions or under water inside a full pool. Additional uses include repairing inflatable pools, rafts, kayaks, and and air mattresses. Patching vinyl seats in your boat or golf cart, and more! Please follow the instructions and watch the video for the best possible hold. Recommended age 14+

Last update on 2023-03-27 at 07:37 PST/ Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Types of Kayaks

Kayaks come in two basic styles. There is the sit in boats and the sit on top boats. Each type carries its pros and cons. It’s essential that you know the difference between the two so that you are better informed about your purchase.

Sit In Kayaks

They feature a cockpit which is where you sit. There is a cockpit rim around the cockpit which is where you keep your spray skirt so that the water remains out of the boat. There are seat and foot pedals which can be adjusted according to the paddler’s length, inside the cockpit.

Pros
Can Be Used In Any Season

Lovers of long kayaking should consider buying these as they can use them in spring as well as autumn weather.

Fast Paddling

These boats have a low center of gravity which translates to better stability and faster paddling.

Protection From Spays of Water

With a cockpit rim that encloses the cockpit, spray waters are kept out, and hence the paddlers can have a smooth ride. Also, the absence of drain holes in the bottom of the cockpit ensures that it remains dry throughout.

Easy Fishing

The closed cockpits are built directly into the hull of the boat which means you will be closer to the water and therefore can fish with ease. Also, users can access the entire hull hence can store all their fishing equipment.

Cons

Your kayak will be filled with water if you flip and hence recovery can be tricky.

Freedom of movement is restricted.

Accessing items in the back part of the kayak can be challenging.

Sit On Top Kayaks

They are used mostly by paddlers in warm water who love swimming. They feature an open cockpit design that allows paddlers to jump off and get back on. Users sit on a molded depression instead of being in the vessels.

Pros
They Are Easy to Enter And Exit

Since the cockpit is open, it makes it easy for one to get in and out. This feature makes them a preferred choice for fishers, divers, and surfers.

Comfortable

The open-air designs allow room for stretching out and relaxing while on the water. Also, you can place your feet in the position you find comfortable since they offer more footrest options.

Easy Access To Your Gear

You can effortlessly access simple gear like water bottles and fishing rods. Again, they have storage space to keep your fishing tools.

Self-Bailing

They have small holes that allow water to drain through them. In case you topple you can flip them back.

Cons
Slow Speed

They are wide which means they have a high center of gravity hence difficult to paddle and inefficient.

Little Space For Gear Storage

These models don’t provide much dry storage space due to their molded tops.

Offer No Protection Against Harsh Weather Conditions

The paddlers are exposed to wind, hot sun and waves since the cockpit is open.

What to Look For When Buying a Kayak

Weight Capacity

This comprises the total of the boat, your gear and you. If the boat is overloaded it will sit too low in the water and paddling may be inefficient.

Length

Longer boats glide more efficiently and offer abundant storage space. Kayaks with shorter hulls turn more quickly.

Material Used

The material used affects the durability and the weight of the kayak. There are two common materials used for constructing kayaks.

Plastic

Kayaks made of plastics are the common ones.

Composites

Lightweight fiberglass boats can resist obstacles in the water without turning over, and it is unlikely for them to get damaged. But they can be repaired in cases of accidents although they are expensive.

Price

Price also plays a part in decision making. Your place of purchase determines the price. A big box store could be selling them at a higher price than a locally owned pro-shop. Also, you can buy a second-hand kayak which is cheaper as compared to a brand new one. Whichever the case, go for a quality kayak. This means that you have to do more research.

Conclusion

As there are many uses of kayaks, you should purchase one that meets your needs and wants. The purpose will help you determine the features of the kayak. For instance, a fishing kayak should have space for holding fishing equipment.

Don’t just purchase the first kayak that you see. Instead ensure that you research the model you want to buy and that it will suit your kayaking needs. But with this guide you will be able to make a better choice.

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