Paddler: 6 year old male- 42″ 45 lbs
Experience level: beginner, semi-swimmer, with several paddling trips and one overnight under his belt. He has been in kayaks since 18 months, first solo paddle at age 5 (a month before 6th birthday), has paddled solo 2X since.

Boat: Wilderness Systems Tsunami SP
Length/ Width: 12′/ 21″
Max Weight Capacity: 180lbs
Other Features: Movable foot pegs, bow and stern bulkheaded hatches, adjustable thigh braces
Pros: Simple but comfortable outfitting, bulkheaded hatches, tracks well, deck lines
Cons: heavy and awkward for a kid to move on their own

Wildy Tsunami SP (small person)

At the store I often get asked, “How old does a child need to be to start paddling?” My initial reaction is as soon as they can sit up on their own. However, there are many factors that weigh into this decision. First never take a child strapped into a car seat in a boat. No, there are no seat belts you do not want your child strapped or attached to the boat. You and your child need to be able to get free should the boat capsize. Children under the age of 13 are required by federal law to wear a PFD or lifejacket in any boat. If you are afraid of capsizing with your youngster and don’t know how you or your child would react then you may want to wait until you are more confident in your own skills. This is kayaking and while you may not want, and don’t plan on capsizing. It’s a very real possibility and almost inevitable at some point in time during your paddling career. However, if you love paddling, chances are your enthusiasm will get your kids exited too.
If paddling is part of your lifestyle, than your boats should be introduced to your child at a very early age. My youngest son, has been climbing in and out of boats at home before he could even walk, at approx 18 months, my wife and I took him on his first paddling trip in the floor of a tandem.

Age 2

He sat in my lap until he was too big and was tired of the repeated bonking he got from my paddle shaft as I maneuvered the marshes of the Outer Banks.
We then moved to a tandem, where he sat up front and drug his arms in the water as I paddled us around, or he sometimes would sit in the tankwell of a 14ft Tarpon.

Age 4

As his sixth birthday approached, it was time to start some early paddling lessons of his own, like his older brother who also started paddling at age 6 in Maine (but that’s a different story entirely). I was surprised that the Tsunami SP (TSP) fit him so well when he first sat in it. With the foot pegs all the way up he could sit up straight and firmly plant his feet on the pegs with his legs below the thigh braces…4 inches below (he still has quite a bit of growing room). He was a little nervous doing it on his own but he knew how the hold his breath and was not afraid of falling in or getting wet. I stayed close and gave him his first lesson on paddling strokes and techniques.

age 5

He seemed to be quite stable and comfortable in the boat, the paddle seemed awkward for him and certainly could have been shorter due to the narrowness of the boat. He picked it up quite quickly despite it being his first time paddling on his own power. The boat tracked well and seemed quick, he had a bit of trouble getting it to turn, but due to his early knowledge of the strokes this did not surprise me. It also confirmed that it tracked fairly well. After about 15 minutes we paddled enthusiastically back to shore. I did not want him to get tired or bored and I wanted to leave a lasting good impression of paddling on his mind. This was the end of the summer and by the next summer he would be ready!

paddling lesson

A trip to Bugs Island Lake the following May would be his next lesson in the TSP. With a few months of growing between paddling trips he fit in the boat a little better and was certainly more confident. We paddled twice that trip. Once as an instructional session of about 15 minutes, than after lunch took about a mile long paddle to explorer some coves and see a few birds. I towed him the majority of the time, but he paddled as if he was on his own over the better part of the trip. He had no problem resting and letting me do the work when he was tired, but as soon as he felt rested he was back at it again. It seemed very stable, and he had no problem getting it to go when and where he wanted.

age 6

Not to say that all parents should take their small children out paddling on their own, especially if they do not feel comfortable, but this is what I do, I teach paddlesports. I certainly used caution, I am not taking him out in conditions or cold water, I am aways with-in a paddle stroke way and he is aways, always wearing his PFD.
Making sure that kids wear a properly fitted PFD is extremely important, too big is no good and loose and unzipped is no good either (this topic is a different rant altogether).

Paddle Stroke Lesson

If you are eager to try paddling with your children, I would certainly encourage you to look into a class that you can take together or inquire about kids lessons at your local paddling shop. Also inquire about kids paddling classes at local lake municipalities. As it currently stands in Greensboro, NC kids under 12 must be in a tandem, ages 13-15 can paddle in a solo boat with an adult paddler with-in a paddles length away, and kids must be 16+ to paddle completely on their own. Kids classes should be relatively short in length and be geared toward safety which will develop into good habits on the water, this will help to keep your children’s interest up while having fun and being safe. Good paddling technique takes time and lots of practice, so don’t rush it. They will get better with practice and as they get stronger their endurance will improve, allowing them to paddle longer. If you get frustrated then so will your kids and they will not want to paddle. It is supposed to be fun, so make it fun, keep it short and bring a tow rope…

and Maybe I’ll see you and your kids on the water,

Will

FYI…

RALEIGH, N.C. (Aug. 28, 2008) – In an effort to bring North Carolina into compliance with federal regulations for recreational boating, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is currently preparing modifications to personal flotation device (PFD) requirements. In state waters, canoes and kayaks do not and will not need a Type IV PFD, approved throwable flotation devices commonly known as ring buoys or buoyant cushions. These modifications will clarify compliance so that: Canoes and kayaks 16 feet in length and over would be exempt from carrying a Type IV PFD. Canoes and kayaks under 16 feet in length already are exempt from carrying a Type IV PFD. Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks would be exempt from requirements to carry any Type PFD. In North Carolina, a personal flotation device is required for everyone onboard a vessel on the water. Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III PFD in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard. That includes canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized vessels. Children younger than 13 are required to wear a properly-fitted, U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD whenever the vessel is underway. While these regulations are being updated, only previously applicable laws will be enforced by Wildlife Officers. For more information on free boating education courses or safety and requirements, go to www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0031. http://www.ncwildlife.org/index.htm

The most important thing to remember about your PFD is…TO WEAR IT!

Cape Lookout National Seashore on North Carolina’s southern coast is a unique spot to paddle. The Cape Lookout Lighthouse, a well known navigational landmark and sought after photographic landmark, is the backdrop to many photos taken in this area. The wild ponies, sea birds, and marine wildlife only add to the majesty of this paddlers paradise. Mile upon mile of open coastline alongside tidal marshes and creeks that line the Core and Back sounds of the lower Outer Banks allow for days of wonderfully picturesque paddling and camping.

Sunset on Cape Lookout

However this location is not ideal for the unexperienced and ill-prepared paddler. Strong winds, storms, tides, currents, and waves all of which can change the water conditions quickly and unexpectedly. Any combination of these conditions can turn a seemingly beautiful day on the water into a dire situation in a matter of minutes. Incorporate traffic filled boating channels and a scattered group inexperienced kayakers and you are looking at a recipe for disaster.

Too many of the boats that are paddled in these open waters are ill-equipped to handle any one of the above mentioned conditions. Most recreational kayaks are not suited for waves as their open cockpits eagerly await a large gulp of water that will quickly fill the boat and capsize. In addition to their large cockpits the lack of secondary stability of many rec boats does not give these kayaks the seaworthiness needed for the rough conditions that this windblown locale will often provide. The lack of flotation in these boats is their most serious flaw. The majority of recreational kayaks have at the very most, a rear hatch and bulkhead that only provide marginal flotation. Once the water starts entering the cockpit the entire front of the boat can quickly fill with water. It can be extremely difficult to recover from this situation during good conditions, add in a little wind and some tidal currents and the inexperienced paddler may need to call the Coast Guard.

On Patrol

Navigating the maze of marsh creek channels along with the shifting sand bars and surging inlets of the Outer Banks is a daunting task and should not be taken lightly. Many paddlers get disoriented by paddling in and out of the monotonous grass lined islands and creeks. Out going tides can quickly trap a paddler in an interior pond, or in a tidal flat causing them slog their boat through knee deep muck as they find deeper water. In open water changing tides can make paddlers frustrated and exhausted; and if in the wrong place at the wrong time can take you into the confused seas of an inlet or into the path of an oncoming motor boat.

Taking a bearing

Despite the need to know proper paddling skills, rescue & recovery techniques, have reliable equipment, and know how to navigate many folks ignore the warnings and get into trouble paddling these waters. By using an experienced, and qualified kayak guide you can greatly minimize your risks and insure an enjoyable adventure.

A qualified guide/ instructor will be able to assess your current skill level and teach you the paddling skills needed to safely make the crossing this trip commonly consists of. Your guide should also discuss with you the risks involved in venturing into this location. This includes environmental risks, physical risks, as well as the psychological risks in paddling with a group. This should be done prior to signing any paperwork. Before you commit to any coastal paddling trip you should know, understand, and appreciate all the risks involved. Individual safety is each paddlers own responsibility, it is the guides jobs to intervene in dangerous situations and make the decisions that their experience and judgment dictate are prudent. The guide facilitates an enjoyable experience for their clients, teaching skills when needed, sharing experiences, telling stories, jokes, keeping the group motivated, and often doing the cooking and cleaning as well. Myself like many guides will be first one up in the morning and the last one down at night. An experienced guide will plan routes and activities suitable to the groups experience and not let the group spread out too far, which can be detrimental when the conditions get less than ideal.

A quality guide service will also provide proper boats, paddles, and life jackets suitable for the experience of the group, the location of the trip, and the conditions the group will be paddling in. Touring boats (sea kayaks) as well as properly fitted and comfortable life jackets are essential to an enjoyable experience.
These boats provide the storage capacity needed to carry not only the paddlers personal gear but their share of group gear as well. More importantly they have inherent flotation with front and rear bulkheads and hatches. Touring kayaks generally have greater secondary stability allowing these boats to be paddled in rougher water with better reliability than many recreational kayaks. These boats are designed to have a tighter fit than their rec cousins, which actually gives you better boat control. Their longer length allows the boat to travel quickly in a relatively straight path with ease.

Many guides that regularly lead trips in these water know the ins and outs of the islands, marsh creeks, and sandbars that dot this coastal region. By using proper navigational skills which include using nautical charts, tidal charts, with a blend of local knowledge a good guide can get a group through the maze of grasses with relative ease. Also having and using a reliable weather radio, to keep tabs on the ever evolving weather patterns, wind speeds, marine forecasts and warnings. having this knowledge is also important in planning the day’s journey.

Local lakes and ponds as well as many slow moving rivers are great places to strengthen your paddling skills in preparation to head out to a coastal environment. If you lack the proper knowledge I would certainly recommend taking a class from a qualified instructor before venturing into waters of Cape Lookout. While using a guide service will minimize many of the risks it will also allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery and the experience. With all the logistical preparations and planning taken care of, having your meals prepared, your route planned, you have little to worry about. There are many great guides along the coast and interior portions of North Carolina that guide trips along the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Keep an eye on our calendar as we will be headed back to the Cape before too long, and we would love to show you around this magical area.

Buying a Kayak

1. Types of Kayaks:

Whitewater Kayak-typically less than 9 feet long, shaped like a banana (rockered), small cockpit opening, paddled with a neoprene skirt, used for paddling large rapids and waterfalls
Great for whitewater paddling
Not for paddling lakes

Recreational Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, a large cockpit
opening, often paddled without a skirt, used for gentle moving rivers and lakes (the average boater)
Great for paddlers who are new to kayaking, want to paddle gentle waters, be
comfortable
Not as fast as sea kayaks, typically not used on the ocean or rough rivers

Sea Kayak-typically at least 14 feet long, very little rocker, small cockpit opening, paddled with a skirt, used for paddling on the ocean or sound, or paddling 5-25 miles in a day. Sea kayaks will have deck rigging for spare paddles, maps, and rescues.
Great for paddlers who want to paddle long distances (>5 miles), roll, and/or camp
Not as stable as a recreational kayak, tight fitting

Sit on Top Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, paddler sits “on top” of the kayak hull, which is sealed, water drains out of the kayak automatically
Good for-paddlers who don’t want to feel trapped, summer time, fishing
Not for paddlers who want to go fast, stay dry and warm

2. What will you use it for?

Lakes-get a boat that is fast and tracks straight usually at least 12 feet

Gentle Rivers-get a boat that has a flat bottom so that it will turn well usually 12 feet or less in length (depending on size of paddler)

Gentle Rivers AND Lakes-there are boats that do well at both, and some have a rudder or skeg you can use that on windy days at the lake.

The Sound-this is the ocean, with all its dangers (current, tides, waves, wind) get a boat that helps you minimize your risks and maximize your enjoyment. Buy a sea kayak.

3. Who will you paddle with?

You want to have a boat similar to the others in your group, if your group is all paddling 14 foot sea kayaks and you are in a 10 foot recreational kayak, you will have trouble keeping up. Similarly, if your main paddling partner has a 12 foot boat, you should also, or longer if they are a stronger paddler. Typically the longer a boat is, the faster it is.

4. Length:

Lakes: Typically 12 feet works great for most paddlers. It is easier to manage in windy conditions on the water, and easier to load than a 14 foot boat. I would only buy a 10 foot boat if you are doing some rivers, or plan to make very short (less than 2 mile) trips, or if small children will be paddling the boat often.

Rivers: Plenty of flat bottomed 14 foot boats work well on local rivers like the Dan and the Yadkin, but if you paddle mostly rivers and are not over 250lbs, a 10 foot or 12 foot boat will be much more maneuverable and keep you from getting stuck sideways on the rocks. Length and speed are not usually issues since the current is pushing you along, get the shortest boat that floats your weight comfortably.

5. Choosing the Boat:

Demo, Demo, Demo. Talk to a knowledgeable paddler who can help you decide on a few boats (2-3) that would suit your needs. Next, go to a “Demo Day” held at a local lake and paddle both boats. Get Outdoors holds demo days every other week during the summer giving you plenty of opportunities to paddle a wide variety of boats and make an informed decision. Paddling the boat you are going to buy is by far the best way to choose a boat. Regardless of what a friend or salesperson recommends, YOUR opinion is the one that really matters. The best way to make an informed decision is the paddle the boat.

6. Comfort:

When sitting in a kayak be sure you adjust the seat, foot pegs, and thigh braces to fit you. Are they easy to adjust? If you are not able to demo a boat on the water, be sure to spend at least 10 minutes or so sitting in your boat. You want to be sure you are comfortable. Something that is a little uncomfortable in the store will become unbearable once you are in the boat for hours. It will not matter how great the performance features of the boat are if you are not comfortable.

7. Price:

There are reasons some boats are more expensive than others. “Cheap” boats are often just that, cheap. Important comfort and hull design features are often missing on the least expensive boats. Spend the money to get a boat that is comfortable and paddles well so you enjoy your time paddling. If you do not enjoy paddling your boat it is likely to become an expensive garage ornament. If you store your boat properly it will last decades. Invest in a quality kayak that you enjoy paddling and it will pay off with many great days on the water over the years.

By Edward Stephens

Statistics:
Paddler: Height-6′4″ Weight-350+
Ultimate 145: Length-14′ 7″ Width-30in Weight-65lbs

At A Glance:
Cost: $1,100
Pros: Straight, stable, fast, comfortable with lots of add ons.
Cons: Costly accessories, middle skirt cannot be adjusted, skirts are not as watertight as they could be.

I have now spent 50+ hours in my Ultimate 14.5 Solo and here are some general impressions of the boat.

First, it tracks very straight. I have found it really easy to keep in a straight line. I paddle mostly flat water but we did take it to Cape Lookout and I had confidence in it there (although it was almost perfect conditions). I have been in some kayaks where the current was pushing me all over the place. I have not had that sensation in this kayak. I have only been in kayaks for a little over a year and the Ultimate to me is easy to paddle and fast. When in a group of paddlers I have never felt like I was slowing everybody down. The Ultimate has what Native calls a tunnel hull; this is basically a bulge on the outside left and right edge of the kayak (not to get too tangled up in nautical talk). It reminds me of pontoons in a way. The effect is increased stability and more displacement (so it can carry more weight–like Giles Corey). I have seen pictures of guys standing and fishing in this kayak, I know it can be done and I may try it some very warm day, but right now I think I’m too big to be trying to stand.

Second is the seat, it’s FANTASTIC. I debated as to whether this isn’t its best feature but decided performance should be given more weight. I’m using my Ultimate primarily for fishing and can spend five or more hours sitting in this seat and be very comfortable (You can even take it out and use it as a camp seat). It’s a suspended seat design using a screened material called Textilene®. This fabric is designed to be able to take 5 years of daily sun exposure before it begins to break down. Filling the seat is a material called HiFlow™ 3-D Mesh (patented). It reminds me a little of fishing line; it’s 100% recyclable and doesn’t use ozone-depleting cfcs (chlorofluorocarbons) in its manufacture.

Now I guess you’re wondering, “Why did he go all ‘Mr. Science’ on me”? Well, friends these miracle materials mean two things, first the seat sheds water. It’s not like those molded seats that get wet and stay wet. Second, because it’s an oatmeal color and not black it doesn’t get as hot as those molded seats either.

The seat is attached to a composite tray which slides under two clips in the kayak and then held into place with two buckles. I find it so easy to take the seat out that I store it inside. There is also a bar that allows for adjusting the incline of the seat (the bar fits in notches in the floor pan). Lastly the seat only weighs about 5-6 lbs so it can also be taken out when loading or unloading your kayak if that extra weight is a concern.

“For want of a nail”. Maybe it’s just me with my big feet, but in some kayaks I’ve been in the footpads are short and tiny. With this being the case I find one of two things happening, either my feet are constantly slipping off them or they seem to cut into my feet (reaching only to about the middle of my foot). The Ultimate has ball of the foot sized pads they call the Easy Foot™ System. You won’t find yourself slipping off them or feel them making your foot numb. Adjusting the footpads is pretty easy; with your foot off the pad just push or pull the attached rod to position it to where you want it and then when you feel it “click” let go of the rod and put you foot back on it.

“What is that rib on each side of the kayak”, you may ask. Why it’s the Adapt-a-track™. One cool thing the Ultimate has is the ability to add accessories by either sliding or clipping them on. You can add cup holders (was there ever a doubt about that one?), paddle holders, lash points, bottle holders and side bags.

The only accessories I have used so far are the skirts. It was for the Cape Lookout trip I mentioned before. Overall, I liked the skirts but they are not without a couple of issues. They can be difficult to put on. I’m wondering if wax or graphite or something might help them go on easier. The tunnel skirt requires you to be in a set position. You cannot adjust it to sit where you want; you have to sit where it is. What I did like about the skirts is that for the most part they worked very, very well. I really liked that the center skirt and the rear skirt have ribs that give the skirt a convex shape which helps shed water. They also have Velcro-ed flaps that allow you to connect the skirts together and these make a pretty watertight seal. What they seem not to have considered is the side gap between the bow skirt and the Solo Center skirt. The bow skirt has at its back a graceful curve that looks great when it’s used by itself; unfortunately when used with the solo center skirt it creates a 6-8 inch gap on the side. The material overlaps, but it doesn’t Velcro down and so water can wash into the kayak when it washes over it.

I do like that the skirts clean up easily and they there are some pockets and straps to tie down your paddle or fishing rod. The solo stern skirt even has “pockets to accommodate fishing pole holders.

Here’s a list of some of the add ons:

• Ultimate Catamaran & Trampoline
• Ultimate Dashboard
• Ultimate Console
• Ultimate Bow Bag
• Ultimate Stern Bag
• Wussy Foot Pads, Large
• Ultimate Rudder Kit
• Ultimate Motor Mount

… And there’s more, the Ultimate also comes in a two person version, and in addition to Polyethylene you can get it the Ultimate in Tegris a high tech composite material which is incredibly light, stiffer and offers high impact
resistance.

…And still more, there’s even a version of the Ultimate that is powered by petal power.

Conclusion: So far I have been very happy with my Ultimate. I think it is stable, roomy, versatile and fast. I will update my review as I spend more time in it.

Have Questions?

For more information visit: Legacy Paddlesports-Native Watercraft

Proud to be made right here in Greensboro, NC

Statistics:
Paddler: Height-5′ 7″ Weight-165lbs
Pungo 120: Length-12 feet Width-29in Capacity-325lbs

At a Glance:
Cost: $825
Pros: Very stable, fantastic tracking (it goes straight), fast
Cons: More costly than some other 12ft boats (it is worth it)

Best Use: Flatwater Paddling (Lakes and Deep Rivers)

The Pungo series has one of the best recreational hull designs around. Going straight ahead is something that often gives new kayakers trouble. When wind blows from the side onto a kayak it often causes the boat to turn. One windy day out on the lake is sometimes enough to make a new kayaker want to take up mountain biking.

Tracking is the ability of a boat to maintain a straight course. The V hull and extended keel at the stern of the Pungo makes this one of the best tracking boats out there. Too often new kayakers purchase a kayak with a flat bottom because they are typically less expensive. Unfortunately they pay later in frustration.

You can see the extreme difference in keel designs in this picture. The red Pungo at the top in this picture has a keel that extends much further than most other recreational kayaks. This reduces its effectiveness on rivers since the keel inhibits turning and hangs on rocks, but makes this boat the ideal choice for lakes.

The V hull also makes the Pungo quick for a recreational kayak, allowing it to outpace boats with flatter hulls and broader designs. The chines or bends along the length of the boat allow it to pass through the water effortlessly and manuver well when placed on edge. Although the V hull design makes this boat seems tippy when sitting in it on shore, it is very stable in the water. At almost 3 feet wide, you almost have to lean over and get your hair wet to tip this boat over.

Pungos are equipped with Wilderness System’s Phase 3 seat, a design that has set a high standard for paddler comfort. The seat back adjusts up and down to give the paddler plenty of support, and can be adjusted while sitting in the boat. The seat is padded and covered in cloth to prevent hot plastic burns and sticking to the seat on those hot summer days that are great for kayaking. In addition the footrests have been recently redesigned to allow the paddler to adjust those while in the boat also.

A bulkhead, or foam wall, behind the seat in the Pungo improves the strength of the boat, reduces warping, and creates a stiffer hull that improves speed. This also creates a dry storage area that can be used to carry your lunch, or camping gear for overnight trips.

Conclusion:
Anyone who is new to kayaking and thinking of purchasing a 10’, 12’, or 14’ recreational kayak should consider the Pungo as a top choice. The comfortable seat, easy adjustability, and ability to paddle straight will make kayaking a new, exciting, and enjoyable adventure!

Piedmont Lakes: A Guide for Boating in the North Carolina Piedmont
Piedmont Lakes Website

Piedmont Lakes began as an effort to provide boaters a resource for finding new destinations for water recreation across the piedmont. There are over 20 lakes within 90 minutes of Greensboro. Unfortunately many are left unexplored due to the lack of information available about many of these lakes.

This book finally provides boaters detailed descriptions of the lakes in our area. Details are provided about each lake and lakes are organized by their location in the piedmont. Each section begins with the size and location of each lake, and a general description of the lake and facilities. Camping and launch fees are provided, as well as fishing and wildlife reports. The marina phone numbers provided can save boaters a trip to a lake that is closed.

Addresses to each ramp are also provided to assist in the location of the ramp via internet map resources or GPS devices. Each section closes with detailed directions to each boat ramp. Maps are also provided to illustrate the nature and size of each lake, and the location of the boat ramps on the lake. Further, a map of the entire piedmont including lake locations is helpful for boaters to understand the lake locations that are nearest to them.

The reference section of the book provides boaters information about fishing resources, boating outfitters, boating clubs, safety, and other resources. A quick reference guide makes it easy to choose a destination based on your recreation needs.

I have recently begun constructing a website to expand on the information in the book. This website provides multiple pictures of each boat ramp. These pictures are invaluable when choosing a destination. This website also provides links to local paddling clubs, outfitters, shuttle services, fishing clubs and resources, maps, and destinations outside the piedmont. Other sections of the website discuss equipment, safety, drills, and paddling articles.

The information on the site is constantly being updated and expanded. We have recently begun adding gear reviews and trip reports. With information from local boaters this site can continue to expand and grow into a great local resource. Please email me with pictures, descriptions, or accounts of your boating experiences at yespe@aol.com.

Piedmont Lakes Website: www.piedmontlakesnc.com

Buying a Kayak

1. Types of Kayaks:

Whitewater Kayak-typically less than 9 feet long, shaped like a banana (rockered), small cockpit opening, paddled with a neoprene skirt, used for paddling large rapids and waterfalls.

Great for whitewater paddling
Not for paddling lakes

Recreational Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, a large cockpit opening, often paddled without a skirt, used for gentle moving rivers and lakes (the average boater).

Great for gentle water, comfort, new paddlers
Not as fast as sea kayaks, typically not used on rough water

Sea Kayak-typically at least 14 feet long, very little rocker, small cockpit opening, paddled with a skirt, used for paddling on the ocean or sound, or paddling 5-25 miles in a day. Sea kayaks will have deck rigging for spare paddles, maps, and rescues.

Great for long distances (>5 miles), rolling, and/or camp
Not as stable as a recreational kayak, tight fitting

Sit on Top Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, paddler sits “on top” of the kayak hull, which is sealed, water drains out of the kayak automatically.

Good for not feeling trapped, summer time, fishing
Not for paddlers who want to go fast, stay dry and warm

2. What will you use it for?

Lakes-get a boat that is fast and tracks straight, usually a boat at least 12 feet long.

Gentle Rivers-get a boat that has a flat bottom so that it will turn well usually 12 feet or less in length (depending on size of paddler).

Gentle Rivers AND Lakes-there are boats that do well at both, and some have a rudder or skeg you can use that on windy days at the lake.

The Sound-this is the ocean, with all its dangers (current, tides, waves, wind) get a boat that helps you minimize your risks and maximize your enjoyment. Buy a sea kayak or sit on top.

3. Who will you paddle with?

You want to have a boat similar to the others in your group, if your group is all paddling 14 foot sea kayaks and you are in a 10 foot recreational kayak, you will have trouble keeping up. Similarly, if your main paddling partner has a 12 foot boat, you should also, or longer if they are a stronger paddler. Typically the longer a boat is, the faster it is.

4. Length:

Lakes: Typically 12 feet works great for most paddlers. It is easier to manage in windy conditions on the water, and easier to load than a 14 foot boat. I would only buy a 10 foot boat if you are doing some rivers, or plan to make very short (less than 2 mile) trips, or if small children will be paddling the boat often.

Rivers: Plenty of flat bottomed 14 foot boats work well on local rivers like the Dan and the Yadkin, but if you paddle mostly rivers and are not over 250lbs, a 10 foot or 12 foot boat will be much more maneuverable and keep you from getting stuck sideways on the rocks. Length and speed are not usually issues since the current is pushing you along, get the shortest boat that floats your weight comfortably.

5. Choosing the Boat:

Demo, Demo, Demo. Talk to a knowledgeable paddler who can help you decide on a few boats (2-3) that would suit your needs. Next, go to a “Demo Day” held at a local lake and paddle both boats. Get Outdoors holds demo days every other week during the summer giving you plenty of opportunities to paddle a wide variety of boats and make an informed decision. Paddling the boat you are going to buy is by far the best way to choose a boat. Regardless of what a friend or salesperson recommends, YOUR opinion is the one that really matters. The best way to make an informed decision is the paddle the boat.

6. Comfort:

When sitting in a kayak be sure you adjust the seat, foot pegs, and thigh braces to fit you. Are they easy to adjust? If you are not able to demo a boat on the water, be sure to spend at least 10 minutes or so sitting in your boat. You want to be sure you are comfortable. Something that is a little uncomfortable in the store will become unbearable once you are in the boat for hours. It will not matter how great the performance features of the boat are if you are not comfortable.

7. Price:

There are reasons some boats are more expensive than others. “Cheap” boats are often just that, cheap. Important comfort and hull design features are often missing on the least expensive boats. Spend the money to get a boat that is comfortable and paddles well so you enjoy your time paddling. If you do not enjoy paddling your boat it is likely to become an expensive garage ornament. If you store your boat properly it will last decades. Invest in a quality kayak that you enjoy paddling and it will pay off with many great days on the water over the years.