What kind of kayak?

Question

i am interested in going kayaking for my first time and will probably rent one. should i use the open kind where i sit on top of it or the kind you get into where only your torso sticks out? whats the pros and cons of them?

Answer 1

open kayak is for ocean use only. If you are going in a bay or the ocean, use this one. The torso type you speak of is used for every other type of water body out there. Dont use the torso one in an ocean because if you flip over from a wave you could drown. I have the torso type and i enjoy it because your legs dont burn up in the sun and you dont get wet. I also just feel faster and safer in that type/

Answer 2

You can figure out exactly which kayak is best for you by checking out the information in Smart-Start-Kayaking.com  The site is for beginner kayakers.  It has a page on how to buy a kayak (even if you're renting) that tells all the info to figure the right kayak for you.  There's a page on how to kayak and also a page on types of kayaks.  Check it out - you'll be ready before you even hit the water - you'll love kayaking - have fun!

Answer 3

Definitely get the kind were you get in it, the kind were you sit on are for messing around and for surfing at the sea, also by using the kind were you sit in you have the possibility of using a spray deck and so staying dry which is a much nicer feeling

Answer 4

Sit ons are water toys..decked kayaks are real boats!

Please! Learning to kayak without instruction is difficult and time consuming. Sometimes it is impossible.  Some 'kayaking' is simply like riding an inner tube. Rental services provide equipment and sometimes a guide or instructor. You have choice of a 'hard' boat or a myriad  of 'soft' ones. Consider a school...a weekend class or a week long one. There may be a kayak/canoe club in you area. They often offer instruction and equipment at nominal prices. Search your country site for such places.