The types of kayak and how To select the best one
Choosing the best boat is a daunting task when there are so many whitewater kayaks out there. It does not matter whether you are a beginner or you have been paddling throughout your life, this kind of choice is daunting. You need to consider many features when choosing a kayak. You can rely on your dealer to give you guidance, but the below are some considerations that should act as your guide when making such a decision.
Basic Kayak Design
Design features determine the performance of your boat. The following design features are worth your consideration.
Hulls- you have the option of choosing either a displacement hull or a planning hull, although some boats have both features on different parts of their hulls. Planning hulls have a flat surface from edge to edge and are easily maneuverable. They also turn more quickly than displacement hulls. Displacement hulls are more rounded and hence faster in flat water.
Chines- these are the edges of the boat's hull that are usually below the waterline. A hard chine is ideal if you want a performance-oriented boat as it allows the boat to turn on a dime. With such a boat, you can easily steer the boat with a hip angle to turn to where you want to go without much paddling. Soft chines, on the other hand, are more forgiving and although you can turn them on a hip angle, they like being pointed in the direction you want to go.
Volume- this represents the amount of water your kayak will displace if submerged with a closed cockpit. If you want a sporty boat, then you should consider a smaller boat as it allows for more play, while the longer volume boat is more forgiving and floats higher. A long boat will be faster than a short one but it is also hard to turn. In many cases, paddlers use volume to determine the boat they will purchase.
The Type of Water You Are Going To Paddle
The type of water is the most important factor you need to consider when choosing a kayak. Rivers vary a lot with some having rocky creeks while others are meandering with class 2 waves. Therefore, you need to consider the types of rivers that are in your location. For small waterways with waves and play holes, consider a river-runner or play boat, while for steep creeks that sport big water and drops, a river-runner, creek, or longboat will be your best option.
The Size of the Boat
Choosing the right boat size is as equally important as choosing the right boat. Your weight will determine the size of the boat that suits you best. However, you need to take into consideration that you will be wearing safety gear that will add weight when you wear it.
Types of Whitewater Kayaks
1. Playboats- these are shortest of the whitewater kayak fleet. They are designed to perform on waves and allow you to perform aerial and surface tricks.
2. River runners- these are the most versatile and they are quick.
3. Creekers- these are the biggest and are built with the aim of charging hard on drop waterfalls, big frothy rapids, and maneuvering in technical and hazardous creeks.
4. Long-boats- they are made for long rivers and are ultra-fast on down river.
The above considerations only act as a guide. You should seek more advice from your dealer to ensure you make the right decision.
