If you're a touring kayaker, you have another
choice when considering a new boat -- a folding kayak. Based on
the age-old designs of the Aleuts, these recreational folding
kayaks have several advantages over their rigid-hulled
counterparts. First, due to the fact that they can be taken apart
and the components packed into trunks or backpacks, they're very
portable and easy to store. And second, because the frame of a
folding kayak is flexible, a skilled kayaker can match the kayak's
movement to currents or wave action.
Folding kayaks are generally constructed with
wood or aluminum frames and an outer skin of a waterproof,
tightly-knit fabric. Hull fabrics are normally either canvas or
Hypalon, a cloth that has a waterproof synthetic rubber bonded to
its exterior. Both of these materials are breathable, which allows
heat to escape--a bonus when paddling in warm climates.
Though more portable than rigid boats, the
folding kayak still requires some effort to lug around. Most
models weigh in at over 80 pounds, so you'd better be in shape if
you plan on packing one into a remote area. Another disadvantage
with these boats is they're not as slippery in the water and
require a little more effort to paddle. To many paddlers, though,
the advantages of having a boat they can break down, carrying onto
an airplane, and store in their closet far outweigh the potential
drawbacks.
In summary, if you're considering a folding
kayak, you've got several options. If you have a dealer in your
area who stocks them, you might see if you can take one on the
water for a test drive. If not, and you've decided that a folding
boat is the way to go, there are several online dealers that
provide great deals on these amazingly versatile craft.
Need a New Touring Kayak?
Is that trusty old touring kayak getting a
little long in the tooth? Are you finding it harder and harder to
keep up with your paddling companions? Are you finding that your
current boat just doesn't have the storage capacity for those
long, multi-day excursions? Or are you in the market for your
first sea or touring kayak?
If so, you might consider purchasing your next
boat from one of the online merchants. Retail paddling shops are
great if you can find one, but most only carry one or two brands,
and expect to pay the full retail price. Online merchants, on the
other hand, often carry several brands and dozens of touring and
recreational kayaks, and usually at very competitive prices. They
have secure ordering systems, good warranty and return policies,
and will ship virtually anywhere in the world. And you won't have
to spend a weekend driving all over town in search of that perfect
new boat.
If you've got a moment, check out one of our
recommended merchants. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you
find.
Backcountry.com
Shop Backcountry.com for a great selection
of name brand touring kayaks, including Perception and
Dagger.
