CHOOSING THE RIGHT KAYAK WITH WITHOUT PRIOR EXPERIENCE

It can be confusing while choosing the right kayak especially if it is your first one since there are a lot of questions that one needs to ask like: which is the right design? l Which is the best quality for my budget? What type of kayaking will I be doing most of the time? This article intends to guide you into making the right choice as you go shopping. Let's get started.

The first step is to educate yourself on the basic construction categories that you are likely to encounter. Kayaks are classified into three groups based on their structures.

1. The hard shell also known as rigid kayaks,The rigid kayaks can be made either out of wood, carbon fiber, Kevlar, plastic or fiberglass.
2. Folding kayaks
3. The inflatable kayaks.

The rigid or the hard shell is the most common type of kayak. Among the various types of kayaks, the plastic one is the most affordable and the toughest. However, it is heavy and can be hard to repair if damaged.

The fiberglass kayak is more expensive than the plastic model but is significantly lighter. Though easily damageable compared to the plastic version it is easier to repair.

Kayaks made of kayaker, granite or carbon fiber are also known as composite types of kayaks. These are more expensive, lighter and costly to fix than the two mentioned above.

Kayaks made of wood were the earliest form of kayaks and were of handmade quality. A well built wooden kayak has aesthetic value. There is a considerable variation in the prices of wood kayaks. Though wooden kayaks are easy to repair, they require routine maintenance. And need proper storage.

Folding kayaks are made of fabric usually stretched over an aluminum structure. They are collapsible and therefore easy to store and carry. Folding kayaks are expensive compared to other kayak types, but they are more durable and depending on the maintenance they have a reasonable resale value.

They are stable and seaworthy, but most people agree that they lose on speed and performance when compared to the rigid kayaks.

The inflatable kayaks

They are potentially the least expensive option when you consider factors such as portability, storage, and maintenance costs. Their popularity has grown immensely over the years. They are very easy to get in and out of the water, and once they dry out, they can be stored in a bag and kept the storage of your car or a closet at home. Inflatable kayaks have been considerably improved over the years. It is worth noting that both the Coast Guard and various rescue teams have been using them for a while because they are sturdy and safe.
What kind of kayaking do you have in mind?

The kind of kayaking you want to be engaging in most of the time will determine the kayak that is most suitable for you. This is one of the most significant factors you need to put in mind. Determine the kind of paddling you will be doing and how often you will be doing it. It could be whitewater, touring, fishing casual kayaking, or ocean kayaking. If you want to try them all, practice caution by ensuring that your lagoon can handle advanced whitewater kayaking.

For someone whose skill level is not where they would want it to be or a beginner it is advisable to acquire a kayak built for casual kayaking, one that is set to handle mild whitewater kayaking. Hopefully, as you gain to improve your skill level and confidence you can trade it in for one that they can accommodate your new skills. Your experience as a kayaker matters

It is highly likely that an experienced kayaker and a beginner will be looking for different qualities while shopping for a kayak. The beginner will be looking for the initial stability while the skilled one will be looking for the final stability. The initial stability is the likelihood of the lagoon to shift from an upright position while the final stability is the propensity to tip over. The boat that has a good final stability will be more accommodating in the tilted position and won't tilt over easily. <1div><div>

Most beginners prefer a larger cockpit than experienced kayakers to enable them to get in out of kayak easily. Other beginners may go for the larger cockpit to allow them to bail out quickly if the kayak tips over or are performing an Eskimo roll to get back to the surface. But if this is a primary concern the inflatable kayak with multiple chambers with multiple air chambers will be suitable as it offers greater stability than rigid ones. Weight, stability, and portability.

We can all agree that kayaks are going to spend more time out of the water than inside.And so you will need to bear in mind how you transport. Store and how to get it in and out of the water. if these factors are a big concern, then you ought to consider the lightest hard shell or go for the inflatable type.

Wheather to go for a single person or two-person and the cargo capacity
Kayaks are available for either one person or two person capacity. Both of them have their merits. A two-person kayak is preferable for families and couples. Everyone can join in the fun despite their skill level.
Two-person kayaks offer more speed and stability. in case you are a couple, it's wise to consult your partner to find out if they are excited about kayaking as you are. Don't find out later because a neglected kayak in the garage is not very attractive.

if you decide going solo, make sure there is enough luggage space. Space should be an issue if you are going on long trips such as camping and fishing and not a casual afternoon kayaking.

Price
After you have settled on the kayak that best suits you. Price will play a prominent role in determining the exact model you purchase, depending on your budget. Kayaks can range from as low as $350 to $4500 high-end two-seaters. Notable brands include Sea Eagle, Innova Kayaks, and Advanced Elements.

I hope you will soon join the thrill of kayaking or have a better experience.