Yes, choosing the right boat is the most
important (and most expensive) decision a kayaker has to make. But
buying a Kayak doesn't have to be a nightmarish experience.
Much of your decision depends on the type of paddling you plan to
do. If you'll be spending most of your time on the ocean, lakes,
or other flatwater, you'll probably be in the market for a sea or
"touring" kayak. On the other hand, if you'll be
spending your time riding whitewater rapids, then you'll want a
whitewater or "slalom" kayak which is shorter, lighter,
and has a tighter turning radius.
Touring Boats
Sea or touring kayaks tend to be longer, faster,
and more stable than their whitewater cousins. They can
measure up to 20 feet in length and weigh upwards of 60 pounds.
They have several water-tight compartments for stowing enough food
and other gear for extended journeys. Touring boats also displace
more volume due to their added length, width, and deeper draft.
They have a much flatter keel line than whitewater boats, giving
them greater straight-line speed but less "rocker" and
thus less maneuverability in tight spaces.
Whitewater Boats
A whitewater or slalom kayak is generally
stubbier and rounder than a touring model. They usually measure in
at around 10 feet in length and weigh anywhere from 30 to 40
pounds (an important consideration since slalom boats often have
to be ported several miles into the river). There is little or no
storage space in a slalom boat, but since most river trips tend to
be one day affairs, there isn't as much of a need to haul around a
lot of gear. Slalom kayaks come in several different designs, with
some built for general river running and others more suited to
racing or playboating.
Hull Materials
Another important consideration will be the hull
material of your new kayak. Most modern boats are made of either
fiberglass or polyethylene plastic. Another popular material is a
kevlar/fiberglass hybrid. All three of these materials have
distinct advantages and disadvantages. Polyethylene hulls are
rugged, inexpensive, and produced in the widest variety of shapes
and sizes. They're also heavier than the other two materials.
Fiberglass, on the other hand, is lighter, but more expensive and
not as rugged as plastic. Kevlar, the third material, is even
lighter than fiberglass, is very strong (i.e. bulletproof vests),
but can cost twice as much as a polyethylene-hulled boat.
Another option for the recreational flatwater
paddler is a folding kayak. These touring boats have a fabric hull
that slips over a wooden or alumnium frame that can be taken apart
when not in use. When disassembled, these boats fit into a
carrying case that's not much larger than a backpack. The main
drawbacks to foldboats are weight (they can weigh upwards of 80
pounds) and price, which can run up to 20 percent higher than a
comparable fiberglass boat.
Take It For A Spin
Okay, now that you've decided on the type of
boat you want and the best hull material for your needs, it's time
to start kicking the tires. If you have a good sports shop or
kayak outfitter in your area, drive down and take a look at the
different models they have on display.
Sit in the cockpit -- make sure it's a cockpit
size that physically fits you (later you'll want to custom-fit
your cockpit to your tastes, but make sure the boat feels right to
start with). Make sure that your thighs, knees and hips
comfortably touch the interior walls. If the boat has foot braces,
make sure they're firm and easy to adjust.
If the shop has a body of water nearby, see if
you can take your choice out for a "test drive." Some
outfitters will even have rentals of that model available, and ask
if you can apply the cost of a rental to the price of the new
boat. When test driving a boat, see how it handles on the waves
and in windy situations. A kayak's tendency to weathercock will be
most evident in a strong breeze. Capsize it a few times to see how
well it performs during an Eskimo roll. If it's a slalom kayak,
see how well it turns and handles in rapids. If the boat seems
sluggish or unresponsive, you might want choose another model.
This is just a general overview. There are many
more choices and options when selecting a kayak. If you're pressed
for cash, you might consider buying a used kayak. If you're a
beginner to the sport, and you're worried about getting caught in
the boat during a roll, take a look at a "sit-on-top"
model that allows the paddler easy exit from the boat. There are
inflatable kayaks that are inexpensive and easy to transport,
multi-day touring kayaks that have rudders for easier steering in
the wind, etc. And then you'll have to decide how you'll be
transporting you new pride-and-joy back and forth from your home
to the water.
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