How do you pick a Kayak?

Question

My wife is looking to buy her first Kayak and we were wondering what the best way to choose one was

Answer 1

It really depends on what kind of water you plan on paddling in, but as a general guideline, buy a model size up. For instance, if you are going to be just doing some recreational kayaking (couple hours, day trips), buy a model that will allow you to go overnight if you'd like. With kayaking, the learning curve is pretty steep and beginnners tend to outgrow their boats pretty quickly.

Is your wife going to be going out alone? If so, you want a boat that she can lift by herself. Fortunately, a lot of companies are making lighter boats specifically designed for women.

Finally, always go with a reputable company. Make sure they let her paddle the boat before she buys it. Two boats that look completely alike on land very well may feel differently on the water. Try before you buy!! Also, ask if they have any package deals. You're going to need a PDF and a paddle too. Get a nice paddle if you can afford it. The lighter the better :-)

Hope this helps and happy paddling!

Answer 2

It depends quite a bit really, my advice would be to find a local kayaking club and join them, that way you can be with other experienced kayakers and see what they use, one of them may even come along to help you chose.

Answer 3

Any experience? Age? Physical condition? Weight? Budget? Flat Water? White Water? Sea Kayaking? Competition?, Cruising? Have you considered a canoe?

Search your local community for kayak/canoe activity, beginners are always welcome.

Visit the Nantahala Outdoor Center website.

Answer 4

find an outfitter and a canoe or kayak club - there are plenty of boats to select from:

Whitewater - rec and play boats

river boats or creek boats

lake or ocean kayaks

know the water you want to run with your boat.

there are places that will teach her to roll the boat (rec/play/white water)

then GO SIT in one and see if you like them - prices are from 200 low end to over 1500 for a boat.  used is a better way to go to start - check a site  boater talk for used boats - there is also america whitewater as a site

Gear needed will also be a paddle - PDF - Helmet (if whitewater) a skirt (to cover the opening and keep water out).

ENJOY