Searching for a convenient kayak that is suitable for beginners can be stressful and challenging. There are only a few products that are made with the features and design elements that will genuinely support newcomers. We are now going to explore through five of our favorite selections on the market and try to determine which selections might be suited best for your interests.
Before we begin reviewing products, we must inform you about some of the common practices that are noticeable within the kayak industry. Most of the kayaks in this review are equipped with safety features, but there are some situations where customers might prefer a certain type of design.
We are going to talk a little bit about price range, design quality, features, customer ratings, and other miscellaneous product specifications for each kayak that we evaluate and review.
All of these factors can influence the value of the kayak. If you are looking for a product within a certain price range, don't forget to take a brief look at the pros and cons of each item to see if it matches the budget that you have set for yourself. In addition to the price range, you can also find other useful features within these areas of the product review.
Now that we have covered all of the basic information, you should now be prepared to begin looking at each of these high-quality kayak products. Let's get this review kickstarted by launching straight into our review for the number one kayak for beginners!
Top 5: Kayaks For Beginners Reviews
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
9.9 | ||
9.7 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
9.2 |
Our top kayak selection goes to the Perception Access Sit on Top Kayak. This particular choice features several custom footrest positions and three water-themed color schemes that you can choose from on the product page.
In addition to the customization features, users can also take advantage of the comfortable design and the cup-holders to enhance their kayaking experience. There are a few designated storage areas that could allow you to place your smaller outdoor accessories while you operate the kayak.
This kayak is one of the most expensive selections in this entire review. The price tag is one of the unfortunate facts about this product, but that doesn't stop customers from leaving positive feedback in the customer review section. With that being said, this product is probably ideal for beginners that are not holding themselves to a strict spending budget.
Pros
Cons
Our runner-up selection goes to the Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak. This highly-rated product is affordable and efficient for beginners. The puncture-protective design greatly reduces the chances of leaks and provides enhanced durability and quality.
If you are looking for a highly-effective and affordable kayak that is suitable for a beginner, you probably can't go wrong with this Sevylor kayak. As a bonus, many customers have praised how simple the setup process is for this particular product. Many customer reviews discuss the possibility of using this product within ten minutes of receiving it and setting it up.
The seamless setup process and affordable price range are two main factors and reasons that this kayak is ideal for beginners. Unfortunately, on the other side of things, many customers have complained about poor customer service from the manufacturer.
Pros
Cons
The Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2-Person Fishing Kayak is an ideal beginner's product for a pair of newcomers to kayak fishing. Users can follow through their purchase by going through the fast and simple inflation process. Once inflated, customers might be impressed with the anti-leak design that is equipped onboard this efficient kayak.
While this may not be the cheapest option available for you to purchase, it is commonly placed on discount and can be acquired from the Amazon marketplace for a fairly reasonable price tag.
Pros
Cons
Our fourth review features the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak, which has earned a mixed collection of feedback from customers. This kayak has a two-seater capacity and features a generous price tag that makes it appealing to customers on a strict spending limit. There might not be a better selection for beginners in this market, especially when considering the affordable value when compared to other similar start-up kayaks.
One of the minor things that hold this particular kayak back from placing higher on our list is the fact that it is vulnerable to minor water leaks. This can reduce the durability of the kayak and make it far more challenging to enjoy a day on the lake.
Pros
Cons
To conclude the review section, we'll look at our fifth place product, better known as the Maxim 100X Sit-in Recreational Kayak. This lightweight and portable kayak is designed for recreational purposes and features a complimentary storage hatch.
The price range is a little bit higher than average, but there are some impressive features on this kayak that raise the price tag. One of those features happens to be the extensive hull design that makes this kayak more stable and easier to control.
It may not be our top product, but it manages to present customers with a unique collection of characteristics that craft into a consistent and effective kayak design.
Pros
Cons
Frequently Asked Questions
How expensive is a high quality kayak for beginners?
As a customer, you can pretty much choose how much you are willing to spend when it comes to purchasing a brand new high-quality kayak for your personal use. The price gap is somewhat larger than you might expect and you can find products from as low as 50 dollars, all the way up to as high as 500 dollars.
Most of the products within this review are moderately priced, but we have managed to include some solid value products as well. For example, our recommendation of the Intex Challenger K2 Kayak is specifically because of the extremely generous price range that it manages to provide to beginners.
How durable are kayaks?
There is a mixed collection of answers to this question and many of the factors can depend on the specific type of kayak that you purchase. Some kayaks are equipped with extensive anti-leaking features that are purposely added to ensure long-lasting durability when kayaking. Other brands might ignore some of these additional layers of durability while retaining a slightly more affordable price range.
It usually comes down to striking a balance between the price and durability of the kayak. This is where the product search can be challenging and stressful. To make it easier for you, we would recommend the Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak as one of our well-balanced recommendations. This particular selection manages to provide value and quality without sacrificing any major features to customers.
What is the difference between a sit-inside and sit-on-top kayak?
There are two main types of kayaks: sit-inside and sit-on-top. If you're new to kayaking, you'll likely find a sit-on-top model easier to use. They are more stable and will allow you to enter or exit the kayak more easily.
The design of sit-on-top kayaks also includes two small 'scupper holes' which will ensure the water drains out of them, so you don't have to worry about them filling with water.
However, when you use a sit-on-top kayak, you're more exposed to the water and will almost certainly get wet during your rid. So, if you'll be kayaking somewhere cooler, you may want to opt for a sit-inside model.
Sit inside models are more enclosed than sit-on-top kayaks, and thus offer more protection from water and the weather. However, sit-on-top kayaks designed for recreation typically have a larger cockpit area, so they shouldn't make you feel too enclosed.
Because of their design, sit-inside kayaks can be more challenging to get in and out of. It can also be much more challenging to flip them back over if they tip in the water, which could be a bigger problem for a beginner.
You can purchase either type as a single kayak or a double kayak. There are also hard-shell and inflatable versions of both options available.
Should I get a hard-shell kayak or an inflatable model?
The available storage space you have as well as how you plan on using your kayak can help you determine whether you should get a hard-shell or inflatable kayak. Hard-shell kayaks are very durable, especially when made from stronger plastic materials. They are also very easy to maintain.
You can also find hard-shell options that are made from carbon, Kevlar, fiberglass, or other composite materials. However, these options are typically not as durable and may also cost more money.
An inflatable kayak can be a great option if you are short on travel space or don't have a safe way to strap the kayak to a vehicle to bring it to the water. When not in use, you can simply roll these options up and store them wherever you have space. They can also be carried as if they were a backpack, which can make them an excellent option if you're going camping or hiking and want to be able to kayak during your time away.
The materials used to make inflatable kayaks are also designed to be very durable. They are coated to resist puncturing, helping you get a lot of use out of the kayak. One downside of inflatable kayaks is that they are not able to go as quickly as a hard-shell model.
How do you determine what size kayak you need?
The size of the kayak you want is up to you. You should first decide if you're looking for a single kayak for just one rider or a double kayak for two riders.
Kayaks that are wider will offer more stability, but will travel more slowly. Kayaks that are longer and narrower will be able to travel more quickly, but will not be as stable and easy to get in and out of, especially for beginners.
You should also pay attention to the weight capacity of the different options you're considering. Choose a product that adds at least an additional 125 pounds to your weight when looking for a kayak that will hold you securely. For example, if you weight 175 pounds, you will want to find a kayak that can hold up to 300 pounds.
Do kayaks flip over easily?
If you choose a wider kayak, it will be less likely to flip over on you. The wider shape makes these options more stable than their narrower counterparts.
Kayaks with a flat hull and sit-inside kayaks are also typically more stable options and will not flip over as easily.
While sit-in-top models may not be as stable, they also do not flip over very easily. And, if a sit inside kayak does flip, it will cause you to automatically fall out, rather than feeling like you're stuck in the enclosed area. This can be particularly beneficial for beginners who do not have as much experience.
It will be much less likely that your kayak will up over when you're out on calm water. If you're just getting familiar with using a kayak, practice on calmer water before attempting to go out in the ocean or during other rough conditions.
How do you get back inside your kayak if it flips over?
If you choose a wider kayak, it will be less likely to flip over on you. The wider shape makes these options more stable than their narrower counterparts.
Kayaks with a flat hull and sit-inside kayaks are also typically more stable options and will not flip over as easily.
While sit-in-top models may not be as stable, they also do not flip over very easily. And, if a sit inside kayak does flip, it will cause you to automatically fall out, rather than feeling like you're stuck in the enclosed area. This can be particularly beneficial for beginners who do not have as much experience.
It will be much less likely that your kayak will up over when you're out on calm water. If you're just getting familiar with using a kayak, practice on calmer water before attempting to go out in the ocean or during other rough conditions.
What should I wear when kayaking?
If you're new to kayaking and are wondering what is best to wear when out in the water, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you always want to keep comfort in mind when you're choosing what clothes to wear.
Dressing in layers is also a good idea, since it can make it easier to take off a few layers if you get too warm or add them back on if it is cooler on the water. When selecting your clothing items, don't choose any that are made of cotton.
Cotton will absorb water and stay wet, so it can make you get cold. Instead, choose fabrics that will dry quickly and wick water away from your skin.
If the forecast looks cold for the day you plan to be out, wearing a wetsuit can also help protect you from colder weather or colder water temperatures.
Another important thing you will want to wear when kayaking is a personal flotation device. This will help ensure you remain safe should there be an accident.
Finally, be sure to protect yourself from the sun. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and clothing made from UPF-rated materials.
What should I bring when I go kayaking?
If you're planning to go kayaking, there are a few essentials you'll want to bring along for the trip. How long you'll be out on the water and where you are kayaking will also impact what you need to bring.
Below are a few things you may want to have with you when you're out on the water:
- Kayak
- Paddle
- Dry bag
- Head lamp
- Spray skirt
- Life jacket
- Compass
- Emergency flares
- Two-way radios
- Towline
- Paddle leash
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Fire starter
- Cell phone
- Small amount of cash
Beginner's Guide to kayaking
Since you are about to possibly get a new kayak, we wanted to provide you with an awesome beginner's guide! We hope you enjoy...
Kayaking is a good exercise. It is also a great way to explore nature and spend time with family and friends. It started as a means of transport and fishing 4000 years ago. Over the years, Kayaking has grown increasingly popular, and the kayak making technology has dramatically improved.
If you are thinking of starting Kayaking, I bet you think that all you need is a kayak, a paddle, and a few basic pieces of equipment. Well, you’re just about right.
Contrary to what some people believe about Kayaking, it’s not that hard. In fact, Kayaking is among the easiest things to learn. Heck! It’s even easier than driving.
This article will take you through everything you need to get started on your kayaking journey. And just to make sure you get it right, we'll also give you some tips on how to kayak.
So without further ado, let’s jump right to it.
History of Kayaking
Since we’re talking about it, we might as well talk about how it all started. The first people to use the kayak were an arctic tribe known as the Inuit. They made their first kayaks using wooden frames covered by seal skin. The kayaks had a small ‘hole’ in the middle where the user used to sit.
Other tribes eventually adapted the use of kayaks, and the materials used in making the kayaks, as well as their designs, differed a little from the original design created by the Inuit.
However, most traditional kayaks were still being made of wooden frames covered in animal skin. This changed when European settlers adopted ship making. The realization of new materials revolutionized kayak making, and the use of skins was significantly reduced.
At that time, the kayaks were covered in fabric instead of animal skin. This continued until fiberglass was introduced in the 1950s. The 1960s saw the increase in popularity of plastic products, and in the mid-1970s, whitewater kayakers realized the impact absorption qualities of plastic and adopted it into kayak making.
Sea kayaks made of plastics were not to be seen until the 1980s, but since then, kayak-making technology has dramatically improved. Now, kayaks are sturdier, lighter, and more versatile than they used to be.
Getting started!
Now that you know your history let's get to the cool stuff.
Every carpenter needs his tools, right? Well, the same goes for Kayaking. After all, without a kayak, it wouldn't be kayaking. Let's answer the most obvious question on your mind right now.
Where do I get a kayak?
The best answer here would be to buy one, but since you're just getting started, I'll assume you haven't. So, you’ll have to settle for the next best thing, or things, depending on your current situation and what you prefer. Here are a few options you can consider before getting your own.
I.Borrowing one from a friend
If you know someone who is an expert kayaker or just owns one, then you can ask him/her to lend it to you. A major advantage here is that they can teach you some basics, so you don't go fumbling around with your paddle and end up capsizing the kayak.
II.Sign up for a class
The best thing about signing up for kayaking classes is that apart from the obvious, which is being taught how to kayak, they provide you with everything you need. Remember, the kayak and paddle are not all you need. You also require some additional gear that we will discuss in the next part of this article.
III.Sign up for a tour
A tour is an all-in-one package. You get a kayak, gear, some basic training, and awesome views. Not to mention all the fun you're going to have with your fellow teammates on tour. You can sign up for a local lake tour, or if you're the adventure-loving type of person, you can opt for an adventure tour company and go to an exotic location.
IV.Rent one
This is a low-cost way to get into Kayaking. All you need to do is go to a local on-water outfitter, get a kayak, some essential gear, and you're good to go. The major disadvantage of this is that if it is your first time, you might not get all the training you need.
What do you need to kayak?
1.A kayak
I know it’s obvious, but there’s a lot you need to know before picking up a kayak for starters. There are different types of kayaks, each suited for a different environment and usage. Despite there being deferent types of kayaks (which we will discuss in a moment), kayaks come in two basic types:
•Sit-in kayaks
•Sit-on-top kayaks
a.Sit-in kayaks
As their name suggests, sit-in kayaks have a ‘hole’ in the middle where you get in and rest in a sitting position with your legs stretched forward. These are the most popular type of kayaks, and here's why.
Advantages of sit-in kayaks
I.Excellent control
Although both types of kayaks provide excellent stability, sit-in kayaks offer better stability. This is due to the fact that when you are sited on a sit-in kayak, your rear, feet, and knees are all in contact with the kayak, thus making it easier for you to maneuver more comfortably.
II.They keep you warm and dry.
Kayaking often involves lots of splashing. Sit-in kayaks keep the lower part of your body below deck, thus minimizing the amount of water getting into contact with your body. The cockpit is also lined to keep you warm, even when kayaking in cold climates.
b.Sit-on-top kayaks
Sit-on-top kayaks feature a seat on top of the kayak. So, as you are sited, your feet along with the rest of your body remains uncovered. But don’t look down on them yet. They have some perks over sit-in kayaks.
Advantages of sit-on-top kayaks
I.Excellent mobility
The top deck of a sit-on-to kayak gives you unlimited mobility as opposed to a sit-in kayak whose cockpit limits the movement of the lower part of your body.
When kayaking, you might find yourself in a situation where you need to get out of the water quickly. Since sit-on-top kayaks don't limit your mobility, you can jump right out, without having to fidget your way out as in the case of sit-in kayaks.
II.Self-bailing
When kayaking, especially on rapidly moving water, your vessel may take in water. Sit-on-top kayaks have scooper holes that drain water away from the cockpit. However, when using a sit-in kayak, you have to bail the water out yourself.
Now that you have an idea of how the two basic types of kayaks work, let's dig a little deeper and check out the various types of kayaks so you can have an idea of what suits you best.
Types of kayaks
There are six common sub-categories of kayaks; they include:
•Recreational kayaks
•Touring kayaks
•White water kayaks
•Inflatable kayaks
•Fishing kayaks
•Tandem kayaks
I.Recreational kayaks
Recreational kayaks are a type of sit-in kayaks. Their basic design features are a large cockpit opening, which makes it easy for you to get in and out, and are relatively short compared to other types of kayaks. In fact, most recreational kayaks have a maximum length of 10 feet.
Recreational kayaks are not built for speed. However, they provide excellent stability, which comes in handy on a leisure trip when hanging out with friends or family.
They are perfect for beginners in terms of maneuverability and cockpit space. You can even fit a kid in the cockpit in some recreational kayaks to ride along with you.
II.Touring kayaks
Touring kayaks are also referred to as sea kayaks. They are generally narrow and long, reaching a minimum length of 12 feet. Their cockpits are very compact, a feature that comes in handy when you want to use your hips to roll yourself over when they capsize.
They are built for speed and are generally used for racing or long journeys on the sea or river. However, they are not suitable for beginners due to their length, which makes it harder to maneuver.
III.White water kayaks
Whitewater kayaks are best suited for more aggressive forms of Kayaking, like riding rapids. They come in four types:
•Playboats
•River runners
•Kong boats
•Creak boats
Playboats are generally short in length, with some reaching only six feet. They are best suited for use on standing waves and raid holes. River runners are slightly longer than playboats and can endure a rigorous terrain down the river.
Creek boats are longer and heavier than the previous two and are designed to withstand rougher waters. Longboats, on the other hand, are ideal for river runs and can reach up to 12 feet long.
Like touring kayaks, whitewater kayaks are not suitable for beginners. It is advisable that you start with a recreational kayak before you advance to a whitewater kayak.
IV.Inflatable kayaks
The best thing about inflatable kayaks is that they can be stored and transported effortlessly. They are the most convenient type of kayak for anyone who lives far away from water bodies.
They are available in both whitewater and flatwater designs and are suitable for beginners or kayakers who mostly kayak on vacations.
V.Fishing kayaks
As their name suggests, fishing kayaks are mostly used for fishing. They come with lots of cool features that make fishing easier. For example, most fishing kayaks come with rod holders, a motorized propulsion system, and extra cargo space. They are also larger than your average kayak.
VI.Tandem kayak
Like fishing kayaks, tandem kayaks are generally large and feature extra cargo space. Their size and weight, however, makes it harder to maneuver with them and recover from capsizing.
Tandem kayaks are perfect for beginners and recreational kayakers who like to kayak with partners. They are, however, not suitable for solo kayakers and rough water kayaking.
Now that you know your kayaks let's check out some of the other gear you need.
2.Paddle
The paddle is like the kayaks engine. It is with the paddle that you get all the propulsion you need to move on water. When selecting the best kayak paddle, the number one feature to look at is its length.
The best way to know the most suitable paddle size for you is by measuring your torso. You put the measurements against a paddle length chart. Here’s how you go about it;
First, get your tools together. You'll need a flat surface to sit on and a tape measure.
Next, take a seat with your back straight.
Then, take the tape measure and measure the distance between the tip of your nose and your crotch.
You should take this measurement twice just to make sure. After that, all you have to do is place your torso height against a standard paddle length chart and compare. You can find a standard paddle chart at your kayaking store or search the internet for more convenience.
Another way to know the ideal paddle size for you is by trying out different paddles and gauging how they feel in your arms.
3.Buoyancy aids
It does not matter whether you are a beginner or an expert. Buoyancy aids are a must-have when kayaking. They act like lifejackets, the only difference being that they allow more movement around the neck and arms.
Buoyancy aids are always provided on kayaking classes and tours. You can, however, opt to buy your own for more convenience.
4.Helmet
You would have never guessed this, but helmets are an integral part of kayaking safety gear. Helmets protect your head from being bashed by paddles (others and your own), the kayak itself, and even rocks and hanging branches around your kayaking route.
5.Wet shoes
Some people use flip flops when kayaking, but they don’t get the job done quite right. This is because flip flops are not supportive or grippy. On the other hand, wet shoes are often made from neoprene and have grippy soles that make walking on slippery surfaces easier.
6.A wetsuit
When it comes to wetsuits, there are two ways of looking at the type you'll go with. If you are kayaking on a sunny day, you might choose to go with a pair of shorts and/or a t-shirt. This is, however, only suitable for calm flat water.
If it's a cold day, or the water just doesn't feel right, you can choose to go with a dry suit or wetsuit. Dry suits are completely waterproof and can be worn over your regular clothes. Many kayaking beginners, however, prefer wearing wetsuits due to their affordability and the fact that they get the job done.
7.Spraydeck
Although not an absolute necessity for beginners, a dry suit comes in handy in keeping water away from your cockpit.
A stray deck is a waterproof skirt that is put on around the body. It wraps around the opening of the cockpit, thus preventing water from getting into the kayak.
Spray decks come in different materials, each suited for a particular type of Kayaking and environment.
Nylon spraydecks are usually used for sea kayaking. They are spacious and ventilated, making them suitable for long journeys. Neoprene spray decks are mainly used in surf and whitewater kayaking. They are very efficient waterproofers as they can withstand the force of breaking waves and rolling.
When wearing a spray deck, always make sure the grab loop isn't tucked inside the kayak. This enables you to pop the deck easily in case your kayak capsizes.
8.A rope bag
This is a small bag with a rope tucked loosely inside. It comes in handy when you want to rescue a fellow kayaker. With a rope bag, all you have to do is grab one end of the rope and toss the bag out to the kayaker you’re trying to help.
If you are on a kayaking tour or class, the guide or instructor will always have one. But, if you are kayaking in a disorganized group, it is an essential tool to carry with you.
9.Knife
I know that this might be the last thing you expected on this list, but a knife is a piece of essential lifesaving equipment in Kayaking. And this is not your regular kitchen knife.Kayaking knives come with a special plastic sheath to prevent accidental stabbings.
A kayaking knife is usually worn on your buoyancy aid. It should be laced in an easily accessible area where you can reach in case of an emergency.
10.A dry bag
Dry bags are one of those things that you are bound to regret if you forget to carry during your kayaking trip.
They come in handy in keeping electric gadgets such as your phone and watch dry when kayaking. You can also pack dry clothes in them.
Dry bags are completely waterproof, so they keep everything you put in them dry, even if your kayak capsizes.
How to kayak
This is where the real fun begins. After you've got all your gear ready, it’s time to get down to business. We’ll provide you with a few basic tips on how to go about it, but we must stress the importance of having a certified instructor around when you do so.
Step one: getting in and out
As easy as it sounds, it can be pretty challenging and awkward the first time you do it. If your kayak is tied to a dock, hold on to the dock edge tightly when stepping into the kayak. Continue holding on to the dock as you lower yourself slowly into the kayak.
When stepping out of the kayak, lean against the dock and pull your knees out against the cockpit. You then slide your way out while in a sitting position onto the dock. Easy right?
If you are on the beach, things are slightly different. First, you pull the kayak, so the cockpit is as close to the edge of the water as possible. Next, you hold the paddle and the back of the cockpit seat with both hands. When doing this, the paddle should be behind you at all times.
Then, you press the paddle blade down and Center your weight on the paddle as you slide into the cockpit. Once you are in the cockpit, use your paddle to push the kayak off into the water, and you’re good to go!
Step two: paddling
Before you start paddling, make sure that you are rested comfortably on the seat, and the kayak is stable. Next, grip your paddle with both hands in a relaxed manner.
An important point to note here is that your torso is your source of power.When paddling, all you need to do is wind and unwind your torso repeatedly until you reach your desired speed.
To turn, simply drag your paddle close to the kayak. The kayak turns in the direction of the drag. When turning, your kayak will lose most of its forward momentum. To keep it moving, you will need to do a sweep stroke.
When doing a full arc turn, you alternate the sweep stroke on one side with a forward stroke on the other side. When doing this, sweep the paddle to the side you want your kayak to turn to till it touches the stern, and there! You’ve just completed a full arc turn.
Conclusion
Kayaking in modern times has a wide variety of uses. Some people kayak for sport, leisure, and others for exercise. In fact, Kayaking is one of the most effective whole-body exercises.
In the article, we have told you everything you need to know before you embark on your kayaking experience. From its history, types of Kayaking, what you need to kayak, and even a few tips on how to do actual Kayaking.
We hope that you have found the information in this article satisfactory. Remember, when Kayaking, always carry all your safety equipment with you. Also, as a beginner, it is advisable that you take a few classes before heading out on your own. Have fun, and good luck out there.
Final Verdict
To conclude this product review, we encourage you to make use of this important information. These kayaks are likely going to be the very best choices that you can make for beginners in this industry. There are so many products to browse through and there are only so many selections that are capable of getting the job done effectively.
These five selections have passed crucial tests and are proven to equipped with high-quality materials and features. We have provided you with a list of recommendations in this review, and we have also answered your questions in the FAQ portion.
With all of this imperative information, your search could be made less stressful. Head on over to each of the product pages, because it is now time for you to make your selection and purchase the kayak of your dreams!
