Buying a kayak HELP.?

Question

I don't know what to get.I;m not sure if a sit-on or sit-in is better.I need storage room-not a lot- just enough.I don't want super long one becasue the are harder to maneuver.My $$ price would be around 600.00 any ideas?Ps.Do you guys prefer sit-on or sit-in and why?

Answer 1

Yep, G_steed is right.  What water will you be on?  For most people, that will be whatever water is closest to home.  You need the kayak that is appropriate for the water you'll be paddling.  Buy the wrong boat, and you'll become frustrated easily.   For $600 you can get a used SOT (Sit On Top) or a SINk (Sit INside) in plastic.  

I prefer SINks... whether recreational or sea kayaks.... But, here's where the water choice comes in:

If you're in Florida, where the water is usually warm, you might want a SOT - you'll get wet, and cool off more frequently.

If you live in California, you might want a SOT for surfing, and a wet suit (cuz the water is chillier).  OR you might want a SINk with a wetsuit - so you can stay dryer and warmer.

If you live in Minnesota, you might want a SINk and dry suit so you can paddle from early in the spring until late in the fall when the water temps are lower.

If you're in North Carolina, you might want a SINk whitewater kayak for river running...

Figure out what your water will be, then test paddle a bunch of boats to see what works for you.

Answer 2

You are ahead of yourself. You need decide where you want to kayak; river, whitewater, lake or ocean. I suggest you take some lessons or attend a regular kayak school. Find the nearest kayak/canoe club and attend a meeting. Inquire of your national organization. The American Canoe Association. The British Canoe Union. Try, Bear Paw Outdoor center or the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Check the magazine rack for canoe/kayak magazines, especially for their equipment issues.