If you are deciding on your very first kayak there are lots of different options to consider. The first consideration will be the kayak material and you have the choice of rigid plastic, inflatable plastic, wood plus other materials such as graphite composites, Kevlar and carbon fiber. When you’ve decided on the type of construction you favor you will need to consider a few factors before you buy your kayak.
1) What type of boating would you be doing for the majority of the time?
Kayaks are manufactured for different situations such as ocean, fishing, whitewater or long distance kayaking. You should think about the type of boating you will be doing for the largest part of the time and pick a kayak that will be appropriate.
2) How experienced are you?
If you are new to this sport a kayak that is easy to get in and out of is generally top priority. Most beginners are worried about getting out of the kayak easily so usually don't want a tight cockpit. A good choice for beginners is a 'sit on top' model that has a recessed seat. Beginners mostly prefer a kayak with excellent initial stability and that has very low tendency to tip. Experienced kayakers will most likely like a kayak with good final stability that will be stable in rougher water.
3) Weight and Transportability
A major concern problem with kayaks of course is that you need to store them away when not needed, transport them and launch them easily. Folding and inflatable kayaks are a good deal easier to transport and store but if you are set on buying a hardshell kayak buy one that is as light as possible.
4) Storage Capacity And Comfort
If you will usually be using your kayak for brief periods cargo space won't be a concern but if, on the other hand, you will be touring for longer you would be advised to ensure there is room to hold all your equipment. Also make sure that there are comfortable seats. Whether you favor a tight fit or more space to let you move will probably depend on the kind of boating you will be doing. For long tours more room is probably better so that you can stretch, change postion or move around. If you will be doing white water kayaking a tighter fit is preferable.
5) Stability
How easily a boat stays in a vertical position is known as it's initial stability. The boat's tendency to tip is known as the final stability. Kayaks have either final or initial stability, not both! Beginners usually favor a boat with good initial stability because a kayak with good final stability will more than likely seem unstable to them and they may well be anxious that it will overturn. Those with more experience who are not scared of turning over would prefer a kayak with superior final stability. A more stable kayak, while useful for beginners, will tend to be not as fast.
6) Length of the Kayak
The kayak's length is directly related to it's ability to move in a straight line and maneuver. A shorter boat will be more maneuverable and easier to turn while a longer boat will track much better.
7) How Much Do Kayaks Cost?
Obviously the cost is a most important consideration in deciding which kayak you’ll buy. A an entry level kayak made from plastic will probably start in the region of $300 while more sophisticated plastic kayaks can be around $1600. Folding kayaks start at approximately $1400 and can be as much as $4000 for a high quality three person kayak. Inflatable boats are often as low as $250. Kayaks made from composite materials are much more expensive.
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