Kayaks & Canoes Buying Guide
Before selecting a canoe or kayak, it's important to think about the type of watercraft that's best suited for your needs. Consider your planned activities and skill level before you start your selection process. It will go a long way in making sure you choose a canoe or kayak that will make your time on the water a real pleasure.
Selecting a Canoe
Ask yourself a few questions:
What type of paddling do I want to do?
- Fun paddling for short periods of time (1 day or less)
- More advanced paddling on larger bodies of water (1 day or more)
What type of water do I plan to paddle?
- Ponds, small lakes, sheltered bays and other still or slow moving waters
- Large open lakes, open bays and rivers with moving currents
How would I describe my skill level?
- Beginner to intermediate
- Intermediate to advanced
If most of your answers are “1”, you should look at recreational canoes.
If most of your answers are “2”, you should look at multi-purpose canoe.
Comparing Canoes
Whether you choose a recreational or multi-purpose canoe, you'll still find variation in design. Here are some points to compare, and the impact the differences can make.
Width (beam): Wider boats tend to be more stable. Narrower boats are lighter, easier to paddle, track straighter and swifter – but more tippy.
Depth: The distance between the canoe’s side rails (gunwales) and the bottom of the boat. Deep boats with high sides keep water out and increase carrying capacity, but are more affected by the wind. Shallow boats are less affected by wind but can let more water in.
Length: Canoes in the 15'-17' (4.5 m – 5.2m) range are the most popular, as they offer a good combination of speed, carrying capacity and manageability. Shorter canoes weigh less, are easier to transport and can access narrow streams and inlets. Longer canoes are faster, easier to paddle over long distances and offer more capacity for longer trips.
Selecting a Kayak
Ask yourself a few questions:
What type of paddling do I want to do?
- Fun paddling for short periods of time (1/2 day or less)
- More advanced paddling on larger bodies of water (1/2 day or more)
What type of water do I plan to paddle?
- Still/slow moving water such as ponds, small lakes, bays and slow moving rivers
- Large open lakes, bays, moving rivers, currents, light surf
How would I describe my skill level?
- Beginner to intermediate
- Intermediate to advanced
If most of your answers are “1”, you should look at recreational kayaks.
If most of your answers are “2”, you should look at touring kayaks.
Comparing Kayaks
In addition to recreational or touring standards, one of the most significant variations in kayaks is the difference between sit-in and sit-on-top styles.
Sit-in Kayaks have an enclosed cockpit that allows the paddler to sit inside the kayak. They tend to be somewhat harder to get into and out of, and can make some people feel claustrophobic.
Sit-on-top Kayaks have an open deck and are easy to get into and out of. Large and tall people may have an easier time with a sit-on-top. They are also ideal for those wishing to swim, snorkel or fish. They are almost impossible to capsize.
Whether you choose a sit-in or sit-on-top kayak, you'll still find a lot of variation in design. Here are some model features to consider:
Width: Wider kayaks tend to be more stable and offer more storage. Narrower kayaks are easier to paddle, track straighter and swifter, and offer better performance for advanced kayakers.Length: Shorter kayaks are lighter, easier to manoeuvre and ideal for smaller bodies of water. Longer kayaks are faster, track straighter and perform better on open water. They are also easier to paddle once up to speed and offer more storage capacity, making them better suited for longer trips.
Tandem: These kayaks are designed to hold two paddlers.
Fishing: Fishing kayaks are made specifically for angling and come equipped with fishing-specific features such as rod holders, cooler holders and multiple compartments for tackle boxes etc.
