Kayaking is one of
Australia’s fastest growing sports, posting a 113% growth between
2005 and 2012. This isn’t surprising, though: not only is it an
enjoyable
water activity,
the paddling can also improve your cardiovascular health.
If you’re one of the many
people interested in starting this hobby, then the first thing you
have to do is purchase a suitable kayak. As a first-time buyer
though, choosing the perfect boat can be more than a bit
overwhelming. To help you with the buying process, here are a few
tips you should keep in mind:
Sit-inside or Sit-on-Top
Kayaks generally come in two
styles: sit-inside and sit-on-top. As the name suggests, sit-inside
kayaks have an enclosed cockpit where you slide in your legs. On the
other hand, sit-on-tops have a paddler sitting atop the boat.
Typically, the former is used more for white-water paddling, and the
latter for fishing and diving.
Material
Like other boats, kayaks are
also made of different materials. For the most part, though, you have
to choose between composites and thermoformed ABS boats. Composites
tend to be lighter but they are somewhat more fragile. Thermoformed
ABS ones are sturdier, but they are heavier and, thus, harder to lug
around.
Size
Next, you have to choose the
size of your boat. Shorter boats are a tad slower, but what they lack
in speed, they make up for in maneuverability. Longer boats are the
opposite, though: they can go faster but controlling them may be a
bit more challenging.
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