Kayak Reviews


Here at the Kayaking Journal, we've compiled a series of reviews on various kayaks and kayaking accessories.

These reviews are subjective and admittedly unscientific. They are based on our own experience with these products, as well as comments we've received from other paddlers.

We've tried to provide a fair assessment of these products--pointing out both their good and bad points (as we've experienced them)--and we are not paid to promote any particular product over another.

Modern kayaks come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, and the boat you choose should match your needs and skill level (and of course, your pocketbook).

Also be aware that kayak reviews, just like any other product, are highly subjective. A boat that 9 people absolute love, can be a real turkey to the 10th reviewer. Paddlers come in all shapes, sizes (and dispositions), and so consider carefully before taking a single negative (or positive) review to heart.

Our advice is to shop around when considering a kayak purchase, and take one out on the water if you can. Look for "demo days" in your area, or see if there's a rental shop where you can take the yak you're interested in out for a few hours and run it through its paces. Also talk to other paddlers in your area and find out what their experiences have been with this particular boat.

Then, when you've made your decision to buy, don't be afraid to negotiate a better price if the circumstances warrant it.  Buying a kayak is sort of like buying a car (especially a high-end kevlar or composite boat) so there's almost always room to maneuver on the price.

 

 

 

Kayak Reviews


Cobra Kayaks -- Product Review
Cobra kayaks - great fishing yaks and fun on the water too.

Current Designs Kayaks -- Product Review
Current Designs has been building quality sea kayaks for almost 30 years.

Dagger Kayaks -- Product Review
Dagger kayaks feature innovative designs and cutting edge technology.

Eddyline Kayaks -- Product Review
Eddyline Kayaks have been known for manufacturing quality sea and touring kayaks for over 40 years.

Heritage Kayaks -- Product Review
Heritage kayaks are great entry-level recreational and fishing yaks.

Hobie Kayaks -- Product Review
If you're into fishing and general recreational use, and are looking for a unique propulsion system, check out Hobie kayaks...

Inflatable Kayaks -- Product Review
Find out why an inflatable kayak or canoe could be your best option, especially considering the price and convenience...

Jackson Kayaks -- Product Review
Jackson Kayak makes lightweight, quality kayaks that are a load of fun on the water.

Liquid Logics Kayaks -- Product Review
Liquid Logics builds whitewater kayaks that are rugged, affordable, and a blast to paddle.

Malibu Kayaks -- Product Review
Malibu Kayaks are quality rotomolded sit-on-top kayaks for fishing and recreational use.

Necky Kayaks -- Product Review
In the market for a sturdy, great performing boat at a reasonable price? Then take a look at Necky Kayaks.

Ocean Kayaks -- Product Review
If you're in the market for a sit-on-top kayak, you should consider the line of Ocean Kayak boats.

Old Town Kayaks -- Product Review
Old Town Canoe is a venerable company with a loyal following..

Pelican Kayaks -- Product Review
Pelican kayaks - great entry-level boats that won't break the bank.

Perception Kayaks -- Product Review
Perception Kayak has been an industry leader for over 25 years -- and for good reason

Pyranha Kayaks -- Product Review
Pyranha Kayaks manufacturers a full line of high-performance, affordable whitewater kayaks

Sea Eagle Kayaks -- Product Review
If you're looking for a rugged and affordable inflatable kayak or boat, Sea Eagle offers just the product.

Wilderness Systems Kayaks -- Product Review
Wilderness Systems kayaks are worth a second look

 



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Tips & Tricks
     

Use Those Hips

When performing a roll, the natural (and very understandable) urge is to get your head back above water as soon as possible. For beginners, this usually entails trying to right the kayak using one's upper body strength alone-- a big mistake.

Instead, stay calm, perform your sweep stroke, and then use your hips to complete the roll. When done correctly, the paddler's head is the last thing to come out of the water. Practice in a pool with an assistant when possible. After a few attempts, you should get the maneuver down to where you snap your hips automatically every time you roll.

 

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Coleman Canoes
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Perception Kayaks
Pyranha Kayaks
Rogue River Canoes
Sea Eagle Kayaks
Wilderness Systems

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