Kayak: what it is, features, how to choose a kayak

Kayaks are boats of unusual design. They are very narrow and elongated, thanks to this they have increased maneuverability. Kayaks come for one, two or three people. The hull of this boat is closed at the top: when a person sits in it, the legs are hidden. Kayaks differ in design, maneuverability and carrying capacity.

Features of kayaks

Kayaks differ in their purpose:

• Recreational boats are wider than other models. They are more comfortable and stable. They are ridden in them on calm water for short periods of time. Recreational kayaks are difficult to turn over, however, if you paddle forward intensively, the stability of the course is reduced. Such boats have sealed compartments for belongings.
• Touring kayaks are extended in length up to 4.5 meters. They are stable, moving rapidly in a straight line. However, they are less maneuverable. They have a compartment for cargo and inventory. Tourist boats are more comfortable than recreational boats, surpassing them in running qualities and safety.
• Fishing kayaks often have a rounded hull design and a slight curve in the bottom. It is flatter for stability. Such kayaks are equipped with consoles to make it comfortable to stand, there are rod holders and tackle blocks.
• Sea kayaks are considered the fastest. They are long, the bow is raised. In length, the boats reach 6 meters, equipped with high sides and an almost flat deck. Sea kayaks have steering, loading hatches for GPS navigation. Some models have a sail.
• River rafting kayaks are 2 to 3.5 meters long. They have a rounded hull for maximum maneuverability. Molded kayaks are the most durable.

How to choose a kayak

To decide on the appropriate model of kayak, first of all take into account where to swim. If it is rafting on a rough river or riding on the sea, you need special boats provided for this purpose.

Choosing a kayak, take into account such factors:

• The larger the water area, the larger the kayak should be.
• The parameters of such a boat should correspond to the weight and dimensions of the paddler.
• The number of seats is chosen according to how many people will use the kayak in one swim. It is important to take into account that a two-seater kayak is more difficult to manage alone.
• Pay attention to the capacity of the cargo compartment. Whether it will accommodate the things to be placed on the kayak.
• How easily and quickly the kayak will move forward depends on the length to width ratio of the boat.
• Flat-bottomed, wide and short kayaks are worse on smooth water and move quickly on a river where there are rapids. Narrow and long models with a keel go easily on calm water, but they move slower on the river.

The hull material of a kayak is often ABS plastic, polymer or fiberglass. The more expensive the model, the more flexible the hull. Cheap kayaks use ordinary plastic, which can crack from shocks. Such kayaks are suitable only for calm waters without rocks and strong currents.