Buying a kayak is perhaps one of the most important decisions you will be making, so the right choice, to ensure, comfort, fit, utility and style, is critical. Apart from buying the kayak, you will have to consider outfitting it, storing it and essentially, what you will be using it for. Here are a few tips for selecting a kayak:

Types of kayaking. Consider carefully what you will be using the kayak for. Touring or sea kayaking requires a boat that is faster, stable and longer than the kayaks for other purposes. These are suited for use on lakes and other flat water. If your pleasure is whitewater kayaking, the kayak for that purpose is usually shorter and rounder than the touring ones. It is also quite a bit lighter as this activity requires a fair bit of portaging. If you are an avid angler and intend to use your kayak for fishing, the sit-on-top ones are generally recommended due to its adequate storage area and its stability.

The type of materials used can vary from the lighter, fiberglass and Kevlar, to the heavier, more rugged, Polyethylene. Polyethylene is one of the least expensive options and comes in a wide choice of sizes and shapes. At the higher end is Kevlar, which is twice as costly but a lot stronger.

Your size, and the kayak's size, does matter, only to the extent that you want to ensure comfort especially when touring. Try out several cockpits to ensure you are comfortable and you can get in and out easily. If you can't find one that fits, think about having a customized cockpit made.

Finally, I recommend trying before you buy. Don't hesitate to ask your dealer to take a kayak or two out for a paddle. If you know someone with a kayak, you can also ask to try it out to see if it suits your needs. Kayaks could be very expensive investments, so you want to ensure you get the right fit and that you are able to enjoy your investment for a long time.

I have barely touched on the many options and types of kayaks available on today's market. Before buying, it is advised that you do your research as there is plenty of information on kayaking available. Seek professional help and advise in making your choices, the more informed you are the better able you will be to ask the right questions.

Learn more about this author, Joan Schroeder.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for buying a kayak?
We want to hear your view. Write now!