The 9 Best Kayaks of 2021

What to Look for in a Kayak

Sit-on-Top vs. Sit-In

Kayaks tend to come in two primary styles, each of which comes with strengths and weaknesses. Sit-on-top kayaks tend to be better suited for casual and recreational use, and they often lend themselves well to fishing. They’re easy to get into and out of, but they’re not particularly protective, and kayakers who use them will likely get wet. Sit-in kayaks tend to be more versatile, with some options fit for performance use and others more suitable for recreational use. They offer more protection and storage space, and they tend to be more efficient to paddle.

Tracking

The word “tracking” describes a kayak’s ability to stay on course. Features like tracking fins, skegs, and rudders can lend a kayak “stable tracking,” which really just means it will move forward efficiently, without veering off course. Tracking tends to come at the expense of maneuverability, though some tracking mechanisms (like skegs) are adjustable, so kayakers can get the best of both worlds.

Maneuverability

Kayakers navigating rough waters and narrow passages will need to be able to move nimbly. These kayakers should look for a kayak that promises “maneuverability.” Sit-in kayaks, which offer multiple points of contact between the kayaker’s body and the boat, tend to offer more control than sit-on-top options. Shorter kayaks also tend to be easier to maneuver than longer ones.

Durability

Even in calmer conditions, kayaks may come up against shallower banks and other relatively rough terrains. In these moments, it pays to have a kayak that’s durable.  

Weight

A kayak’s weight can affect its portability. Kayakers who plan to transport their kayaks from place to place should consider weight while kayak shopping. And kayakers who plan to kayak somewhat rarely may be better served by a hyper-portable option, like a lightweight, inflatable kayak.

Weight Capacity

A kayak’s weight capacity affects how much stuff it can hold. Kayakers looking for multi-day adventures may need an option with more storage space and higher weight capacity, whereas those looking for something more casual may not need to pay as much attention to this feature.

FAQs

How to kayak

Kayaking may seem intimidating, but it’s actually pretty easy to do. Start by choosing a generally calm body of water. (Avoid places where there are harsh currents or tons of motor boats. And don’t go out if it’s flooded recently). Then, look for a place where you can get inside your kayak. A bit of land that slopes into the water is an excellent pick—as long as it isn’t lined with rocks or other objects that might damage your kayak.

Once you’re inside your kayak, start paddling with the current. You’ll want to dip your paddle all the way into the water on one side of the boat. Then, pull it back—and repeat the same on the other side of the boat. If you need to slow down or stop, you can repeat this motion in reverse, placing your paddle slightly behind you and pressing it forward.

To turn the kayak, paddle only on one side of your boat. Or you can dip your kayak into the water at the front of your boat, and then pull it back, carving a curve through the water. This is called a sweep stroke and can help you turn faster when performed correctly. 

What to wear kayaking

When kayaking, you can expect to get wet—especially if you’re using a sit-on-top kayak. So wear something that you wouldn’t mind getting damp and dirty. (Odds are, you’ll also work up a sweat while kayaking. So keep that in mind, too).

If it’s hot out, consider wearing a swimsuit, a T-shirt, shorts, and waterproof shoes. (Look for shoes that will stay fastened to your feet, even under pressure. You might end up walking through the water, so looser-fitting shoes, like flip-flops, may fall off.) If it’s cooler out, wear what you might wear on a cold hike. Just remember that you might get wet from head-to-toe, so make sure you’d be comfortable getting your shoes completely wet. 

What size kayak do I need?

When choosing a kayak, you’ll want to pick something that’s sturdy enough to support you (weight capacity), long enough to give you some legroom (cockpit length), and wide enough to comfortably accommodate you (cockpit width). How much room you need will depend a lot on your needs and preferences, so double-check a kayak’s weight capacity, length, and width before buying—and be sure to differentiate between the total kayak width and the kayak’s cockpit width (that’s where you’ll actually be sitting).

But the size considerations don’t stop there. Are you planning to bring cargo with you? If so, you’ll want to make sure your kayak is roomy enough to store your belongings—and sturdy enough to support their weight. You’ll also want to consider what kind of kayaking you’ll be doing.

Advanced kayakers may prefer longer, narrower kayaks, which tend to travel faster and hold up well over long distances. But recreational kayakers will likely be fine with something shorter and a little wider.

Is kayaking good exercise?

Kayaking can be a great way to work up a sweat and to build strength. Depending on how quickly you’re paddling, you can easily log a little cardio. And if you want to intensify your workout, you can simply increase your paddling speed. And since the water offers natural resistance, you’ll build strength in your arms, back, chest, and core every time you take a stroke.

Why Trust Verywell Fit? 

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.