Question about kayaks?

Question

hi, i was wanting to know what the main difference is between kayaks that are shorter vs kayaks that are longer, i live on the lake and my parents got me a kayak last year, i really love using it and we are now planning to get another for when i have friends over.

it would make sense to me that maybe the longer ones cut through the water better or something? but i'm not realyl sure, any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Small kayaks are more likely to be classes as 'Playboats' designed to be bloody awesome for doing tricks, and a right bundle of laughs in a stopper or on a wave. Not best for a lake unless you plan on doing alot of flatwater moves.

For lake touring, Best bet going for a touring kayak which would be longer and track more easly. Smaller boats tend to dig in at the nose.

Need any 'indepth' type questions give me an email :) What type of boat were you looking at?

Answer 2

There are two types/kinds of kayaks. One is very maneuverable and the other easy to paddle straight ahead. Short kayaks are easy to turn. Long kayaks are fast straight ahead. Width is another factor. Wide kayaks turn easily, narrow kayaks are faster. You could consider a 'sea kayak' for use on your lake.  A general purpose 4 meter/13'2" slalom style kayak is another choice. Paddlers usualy progress to less stable kayaks in order to improve their paddling performance. Check some flat water olympic racing boats to see extreme designs.