Kayak or Canoe? Safety, Weight And Other Features — Buyers Guide
As a kid, I used to sit on the banks of my hometown river and watch the members of our local sailing club training for their competitions. Their moves were gracious and they floated with an incredible speed. There was the kayak vs canoe friendly rivalry. All practitioners praised the qualities of their boats.
After my 12th birthday, I took up paddling. I needed time to find the perfect vessel for me and learn about the others. Despite these, I became addicted to the peace of mind which resulted from the hours spend on the river. You can hardly identify a cure once bitten by the bug.
Top Picks Comparison
Kayaks You Should Check Out
The below links will bring you to Amazon:
1. Intex Challenger K1
2. Intex Explorer K2
Canoes You Should Check Out
The below links will bring you to Amazon:
1. Sun Dolphin Mackinaw
2. Old Town Saranac Recreational
Canoeing vs Kayaking: What is The Difference?
They are difficult to tell apart by the untrained eye. Both float and have paddles. Hence, the confusion between the sports-related to them. They share several similar features but they also have contrasting traits which require distinct equipment.
The most obvious discrepancies are the person’s posture in the gear and the rowing techniques.
In a canoe, you kneel or sit with your legs bent. You use a single-bladed paddle with a T-shaped handle. To keep your direction, you alternate right side strokes with the left ones.
In the other craft, your legs are outstretched and you hold a double-bladed paddle in your hands. You clench it in the middle and push the water with one blade and then with the other. Pros maintain a 900 angle between the two ends to overpower wind strength and go faster.
Both activities have an enormous positive impact on your physical and mental health. Their practice allows you to spend unforgettable moments with your family and friends. All these, while being surrounded by breathtaking views.
Each has its own strengths and weak points. Eventually, you will make your choice based on your personality and entertainment needs.
Kayak Pros
- most types face strong winds without a hassle
- can be used all year round unless frost conceals everything under the ice
- the “skirt” or the closed deck prevents you from getting soaked
- you may roll in it at your own will to spice up your adventure
Kayak Cons
- little space for movement; half of your body is inside the boat and there is no other alternative but to keep your legs stretched
- small storage compartment for camping tools
- the paddles are not as light as you would expect
Pros of Canoeing
- high level of comfort due to the open deck; you can change your position by crossing your legs
- a spacious hull to carry four people and their luggage, including a tent and other outdoor objects
- appropriate for long distance journeys, hunting or fishing expeditions
- less pretentious to deposit
Cons of Canoeing
- a bit troublesome to maneuver in case you want to maintain a straight line
- it might sink when invaded by important quantities of water
- you cannot sail on rapid rivers
Invented for practical purposes, these vessels are used for having fun and keeping fit. They are a serious investment. So, do your homework well and take your time before committing to anything.
Key Purchasing Questions
Setting foot in a boat shop is like entering a car showroom. The glossy surfaces, the colors, and the modern design attract you as soon as you lay your eyes on them. However, while wondering the place never forget why you want the gear, where you intend to use it and with whom.
If you consider spending a couple of summer weekends out on a lake, you should go for recreational equipment. In case you wish to become a pro, then there is a range of complex products available for you.
Either way, you must pay attention to weight, durability, and material. Look for a seller that grant demo-days. Thus, you can decide whether the item is cut for you.
The abundant offer may baffle you. To help you sort things out, we drew up a list of the most crucial inquiries. We put together our experience and knowledge and identify the best answers for you.
Which is Better and Easier to Use?
This question ignites lots of heated debates. Each enthusiast will give you at least 100 reasons to support his or her passion. In reality, everything depends on the area you plan to go sailing, weather, and your skills.
In the mountains, where rivers are narrow and flow quickly, a canoe is hard to steer. The same happens in case you want to launch it from a shallow beach. On the other hand, the gusts of wind do not unbalance kayaks, allowing you to continue your voyage despite the rough waves.
Both single and double paddles are exhausting to utilize when you are a novice. The second ones are more effective as you need not perform steering strokes.
A myth goes around claiming that kayaking is a facile sport. Nothing further from the truth. The idea sprang from the ease of handling in this gear on a still lake. However, the moment elements unleash themselves, you realize the importance of lessons taught by a professional.
Which is Easier to Flip or Tip Over?
Both beginners and veterans are concerned with the balance of the buoyant crafts they want to purchase.
When the water is tranquil, the odds to flip in a canoe are reduced. This occurs because most models are heavier and wider than their “rivals”.
In choppy waves, the other “guy” is a better alternative as you are closer to the sailing surface. Newbies in this domain are always a bit scared by the vessels’ slim figure. The image of a clumsy person topping over helplessly comes to their mind. In fact, the equipment designed for the early stages is more stable. It is made of polyethylene which means more weight. Plus, it is ample and long.
The steadiness of a canoe depends a lot on the shape of its bottom. A flat one has a superior initial stability. Therefore, you can get on and off with little effort. It leans less, which means higher chances of tipping.
The round ones are the exact opposite. They tilt with every move you make and inexperienced users may encounter hardship while boarding them. But, they will not end up beneath them.
As always the middle path is the safer. An object with a somewhat curved bottom brings together the advantages of the other two.
Kayaks have a U or V-shaped hull. If its top is wide, then the boat has a great primary stability. You will hear the word “chine” associated with this product. It refers to the speed that characterizes the passage from initial to secondary stability. A soft chine implies a leisurely movement while a hard one means the exact opposite.
What about Weight Dissimilarities?
Since this is such a significant feature, we have to bring it to your attention.
Canoes range from 70 to 100 lbs. The traditional ones are made of wood. Unfortunately, their maintenance is rather time-consuming.
Hence, manufacturers diversified their offer with items made of aluminum, polyethylene, and composite. This comprises layers of Kevlar – which is five times more resistant than steel – graphite, and fibers glass. Objects constructed from such a mix are light, durable and pretty expensive.
Most kayaks available on the market are between 35 and 60 lbs. The ones projected for proficient practitioners have carbon fiber in their composition. They are light, have a jaw-dropping aspect but are pricey. The tandem models exceed the average lbs. value.
Which is More Beginners Friendly?
Double paddled vehicles suit novices better. It does not take much to comprehend how to make it float towards a certain point. While with “their opponents” learning the introductory steps might be a bit discouraging. There are high chances to move in circles during the initiation classes. To prevent this and to overcome anxious feelings, ask a professional to join you during the initial rides.
All changes as you get to the next levels. Committed instructors will warn you that a summer is not enough to master the “Eskimo roll” or to sail by yourself along vertiginous rivers.
With the other equipment, training becomes less complicated once you understand how to control it.
Nonetheless, it all comes down to the style which best satisfies your pastime desires.
Which is Better for Your Family and Kids?
The situation is more delicate in this case. Children may never want to navigate if their first experience is an unpleasant one.
Whether “Canadian” or inflatable, canoes are considered more suitable for family trips. There is room for both people and baggage. It is almost impossible to capsize with a trained parent on board.
A school attendee of around eight years can help with paddling. Moreover, the little ones have improved chances to admire the scenery because they are not close to the water level.
Although smaller, the double paddled crafts are favored by many young families. The Sit on Top type is an adequate alternative because the legs dangle outside. Also, kids love jumping from them the moment they arrive next to the shore.
Tandem rowing with a grown-up is preferable for boys and girls under ten. They must occupy the front seat. The parent sits at the back to maneuver the gear. Small families might like boats which accommodate three individuals with the child placed in the middle.
Which is Better for Fishing Expeditions?
Fishing is a perfect way to unwind and run away from the stress of daily existence. To get the most out of your excursions, you need an exceptional buoyant vehicle.
Up-to-date canoes have sonar finders to spot your prey, GPS to prevent you from getting lost, and even pontoons at the side for extra stability. Seats are not as rigid as they were once. Hence, your body will not be stiff at the end of the day.
Solitary adventures require quick reactions, skill, and dexterity. You have to stay towards the middle of the vessel while trying to snatch the fish. An anchor is always handy under such circumstances. In case you are two daredevils, one can handle the boat and the other the aquatic creature. Believe it or not but an oversized “finned guy” has the force to tow a light watercraft.
Kayak fishing is more of a sport than a hobby. The items created for this activity are easy to recognize due to the broad beams. The feature enables you to stand as you wait for your “victims”.
There is also additional space for stowing rods. The steadier catamaran version is fantastic for fly-fishing and angling.
Which is More Dog-Friendly?
It would be a pity to leave at home your best four-legged friend while you are out there enjoying nature’s gifts.
A dog which is not bothered by car travel is an excellent companion for a sailing jaunt. They take real pleasure in the lazy dangling of a craft. These products were not constructed for pets. Thus, you have to perform minor adjustments, like covering the floor with mats. These will hinder your pooch from slipping or falling out.
Canoes are indicated for starting rides, to get your dog accustomed to the whole action. Aluminum equipment should be your last option because it reaches high temperatures.
You should not overlook the inflatable models. The exterior rubber layer is durable and can face trimmed nails successfully. There are also items covered with scratch-proof finishing for canine passengers without a “manicure”.
Do not hit the road with a dog that is afraid of water or does not listen to your commands. According to a common belief, these quadrupeds are natural born swimmers. It is not so. Invest in a qualitative lifejacket for animals and never tie your furry friend to the thwart.
Which is Safer?
Neither craft endangers your life as long as you steer the correct way. Plus, you have to utilize them for the purpose they were created.
The soundest thing to do is to attend a few classes held by an experienced and certified instructor.
In kayaks, debs must look for the following stay-alive features:
- wide cockpit thanks to which one can get in and out effortlessly
- several metal bars, stern toggles, and grab loops
- a design which matches the body structure; women have a lower center of gravity and therefore feel at ease in narrower items
- a foot plate to protect them in the case of an impact
In canoes, novices should take into consideration the next safety specs:
- two lines: one for the bow and the other for the stern
- tall sides to impede water invasions
- resistant, vinyl gunwales to compensate for the numerous hits they receive
To avoid nightmarish ventures never forget at home your life jacket, first aid kit, and repair tools. Check the weather, sailing regulations, and always inform your friends on the route of your voyage.
Any Difference in the Sea / Ocean or Lake Vessels?
Manufacturers are trying their best to satisfy the increasing and more pretentious demands of paddlers of all ages. Thus, they have come up with products designed to vanquish salty waves, to slide along foamy rivers or to buoy on smooth tarns.
The outrigger is ideal to sail around a heavenly island. With roots in the Hawaiian and Western Pacific cultures, it can be distinguished as it has a unique aspect. It has one or more lateral supports which are attached to the hull. The most popular are the OC1s which accommodates a person and the OC6 for six individuals.
You need a sea kayak to face the ocean and enjoy the thrills. Its specs include:
- a skeg positioned at the rear; it is a helpful aid to maintain your direction
- supple and elongated silhouette
- sturdy perimeter lines to grab in case of capsizing
- covered hatches and bulkheads that divide the space into sections; the cockpit can be soaked but the rest remains dry
- seats with a low back to facilitate specific moves
- more strings to fasten your belongings
Going out in the open requires advanced competencies. Sharpen your sense of balance and your reflexes on the inland waters first.
Is It Wiser to Buy Touring or Recreational Crafts?
In an ideal world, you should have both stashed away somewhere. The touring versions serve you well on almost any type of floating odyssey. They have a moderate storage capacity, so you can plan weekend escapes with them. A boost of adrenaline rush is guaranteed because they reach high speed and glide smoothly.
The recreational ones are for a couple of fabulous hours on a pond or in a sheltered bay. Destined for beginners, they are wide and stable. The depositing area is reduced, but it is enough for a one-day vacation. Lots of models have foot pegs and bungee cords.
Which is Better for Exercise?
All types are great for physical effort, muscle fortification, and building up stamina. The secret is to select the one that fits your frame and your ability to maneuver a vessel.
Another fact worth mentioning is the distinction between paddling to relax and paddling to burn down some calories. In the second case, your rhythm has to be alert during a pre-defined period. Breaks for admiring chirping birds are out of the question.
Both floating vehicles put at work the upper part of your body.
- the arms, abdomen, back, and shoulder muscle are pressed as you move forward
- the biceps and the triceps contract while rowing
- do not grip the paddle too tight because you might develop arthritis
Legs are also involved in the more complicated techniques and you will find this out as your learning progresses.
Moreover, they provide highly effective cardio training and have a positive impact on mental health.
Which Should You Bring Camping?
In this situation, kayaks are slightly overtopped. They have an ample interior to pile up backpacks, sleeping bags, and food boxes. You can stand up, admire the surroundings, and take pictures. One person occupies the stern seat and another the bow seat. There is plenty of space left in the center which is separated into sections by the yoke and the thwarts.
Ardent practitioners will argue that a professional gear is just right for a few days in the backcountry. Special areas, hidden to the eye, preserve your luggage dry. As long as each member of the party comes with his/her buoyant item, solo traveling is optional.
What is A Decked Canoe?
If you cannot decide which side to join, there is a hybrid product which offers you the best of both worlds. The decked model reunites the prime specs of the two boats “dissected” here.
Its awesomeness results from the:
- roomy cockpit, a small deck, and reliable profile
- flexible footrest
- carry handles and elastic cords for baggage attachment
- possibility to use either a single-bladed or a double-bladed paddle
Their owners consider them perfect for inland cruises or for navigating in the proximity of the coastline.
Which is Easier to Transport?
In a region with portages, a kayak is troublesome to carry. Just imagine yourself on a bumpy track, with your head in the cockpit and no possibility to see what comes next. You may lift it on the left or right shoulder or tow it after you. Unfortunately, both solutions are tiresome and energy-consuming.
This task is less tedious with “fellow competitors” thanks to the yokes. These were invented to put the boat on your shoulders in case you are forced to debark. Plus, you may load the other traveling objects on your back.
The situation is reversed when you transport your gear by car. You do not go through much pain to elevate a kayak on the roof rack.
In addition, there are the modular ones which have demountable parts that fit in a tiny vehicle. Foldable versions later can be dissembled into small pieces and put inside a large rucksack.
The “rival” equipment is more pretentious and two people are needed to place it on top of an automobile. Tie down straps are necessary for rack attachment. Most owners fasten the stern is to the bumper with solid ropes.
Heavy gear needs special trailers. On the other hand, the inflatable products give you few headaches.
Which One Reaches the Highest Speed?
Most people assume that canoes are slower. In fact, two different vessels having the same length can reach the same maximum speed. The wrong belief originates in the confusion between facile paddling and rapidity.
The single paddle has to be moved from side to side. This requires effort and endurance. You need not get upset if you are outrun by other crafts.
However, the overall speed of kayaks is superior to the one of their “opponents”. They float closer to the water surface and thus encounter less wind stand.
BWCA (Boundary Waters, Canoe, Quetico) – The Earthy Paradise of the One Blade Paddlers
To start properly your new life as a canoeist, you must head for BWCA, a savage zone which comprises the northeastern part of Minnesota and the Quetico Park in the province of Ontario, Canada.
You will embark on a voyage which will take you through spellbound areas. Little has changed here since the ice cap retreated to the north.
It is impossible not to enhance navigation abilities here since there are around 1,200 miles arranged for memorable rides.
Which is The Best US Destination for Kayaking?
Lots of place across the USA are a real Garden of Eden for the people enamored with the sport. Although spectacular, the rapid streams in West Virginia are not for the novices.
The San Juan Area in Washington is tiptop for rookies. The lazy waves will get you from one island to another while you refine your navigation techniques.
What is a SOT (Sit On Top)?
Having surfboards as the source of inspiration, the SOTs have the seat placed above the hull. Thus, they are a top pick among massive or very tall individuals.
Instructors use sit-on-tops during the initial stages because they are less prone to turn upside-down. Fishing passionate appreciate their construction which gives them the possibility to stand.
Its killer features comprise:
- a sealed hull which reduces the sinking odds
- an ample area for storage
- scupper holes for water drainage
They have a level of stability than the sit-ins. The minuses include slow velocity, increased exposure to elements, and difficulty to hang or hook on a wall.
The best time to start paddling is now. Thus, go out there are find your match.
Have you got any other questions? Do not be shy and contact us! We will get to you in no time.