When I tried kayaking for the first time, I never thought it would be the beginning of a new love affair. Finding the perfect kayak is extremely important to make your first time as memorable as mine if you want to try kayaking.
Just like many of you, I was having a hard time deciding what kayak I should buy. And after much research, the midwest watercraft kayak reviews stole my heart, and finally, I have a brand new kayak sitting in my home.
Have you ever struggled to find the perfect kayak, just like I have? In that case, let me share some valuable tips to help you find the perfect midwest watercraft company kayak for yourself or your friends.
Finding The Best Midwest Watercraft Kayak- You Must consider
Different kayaking locations:
Before you delve into buying the perfect kayak, you have to know what type of water environment you want to kayak in. As kayaks are boats, they will float on any water body. But just like vehicles, kayaks are designed specifically for the locations where they will be used.
With inland water, bodies like lakes, rivers, and canals are calmer, so any recreational kayaks can be used.
Open waters such as seas and oceans often provide kayakers with a challenge. Choosing an ocean kayak will give you the best defense against strong currents and bellowing winds.
Types of kayaks:
As they say, there is a kayak for everyone. If you are a beginner, you cannot go wrong with a recreational kayak as you can readily go for short leisurely trips.
If you are a lover of taking long trips along ocean trails, then a touring kayak may become your best friend as it will allow you to speed up whenever you want.
On the other hand, if you are more of an adventurous soul who loves to take on whitewater rapids, the whitewater kayak is a must.
Fishing kayaks will be a perfect match for people who love to fish as it contains fishing gear.
Comparing sit-on-top vs. sit-in kayaks:
All kayaks can be divided into two major categories: sit-on-top kayaks and sit-in kayaks.
Sit-on-top kayaks are recommended for beginners as it is more user-friendly and easier to control.
- Sit-on-tops have an open deck which allows the user more space for movement
- They are self-bailing as the scupper holes instilled in them drain the water
- Usually used in warmer climates
- These kayaks make it easier to get in and out of the water
- Sit-on-tops are often heavier than sit-in-kayaks
Sit-in kayaks belong to the traditional spectrum as it has a cockpit where the user sits.
- The cockpit provides both warmth and protection to the user
- Comparatively harder to get out of these kayaks, so users must know how to perform a wet-exit
- These kayaks enable the kayakers to maneuver easily
- They are equipped to use in rough waters
- Sit-in kayaks have more space for storage
Ideal kayak length and width:
Are you wondering how the length and width of a kayak affect its performance? The answer to that question will take you one step further in your search of finding your perfect kayak.
If you want stability and greater control, go for a smaller and wider kayak -like whitewater kayaks that have a length of 9 feet- as they turn more easily.
Longer and narrower kayaks offer more speed and efficiency, such as a touring guide kayak that can go up to 20 feet.
It is important to keep your height and weight in mind when choosing a kayak, as comfort is key.
The shape of the hull:
Many of you must think, what is hull shape, and why is it important? The bottom shape of the kayak is called the hull, and yes, it makes a difference.
A flat hull will give you stability, whereas a round hull will give you speed. Contrary to that, a V-shaped hull will allow you to travel in a straight line, while a pontoon hull will give you both primary and secondary stability.
Kayak Weight:
Now let us talk about kayak weight and why it matters. If you are one of those who live away from kayaking spots, then you must know why kayak weight matters.
While most kayaks weigh around 20-80 pounds, some cross the 100-pound mark. Therefore, carrying a kayak can be a daunting task if you cannot handle the weight.
So if a lot of portaging is involved, consider doing yourself a favor and get an inflatable kayak or get a lightweight kayak, as it will make your life easier.
Materials that make up your kayak:
The midwest watercraft kayak reviews provided me with extremely useful insight into the materials used in kayak making.
Polyethylene plastics are the most popular material as they are cheap and impact resistant. But the kayaks are quite heavy, and they degrade in UV.
ABS plastics can be a better alternative because you get the same durability as polyethylene plastics with UV resistance in just a slight increase of your budget.
Composites such as Kevlar and carbon fibers have shown a lot of promise in performance, but it comes with a considerably high price tag.
Method of Propulsion:
Picking your ideal method of propulsion plays a key role in finding the perfect kayak as it relates to the price and adaptability of your kayak.
As we all know, paddles are the ultimate classical method chosen by kayak enthusiasts. But if you dislike paddling, you can opt for pedal-driven kayaks.
Pedal-driven systems free up your hands so you can fish easily and give you a much more unique experience.
If you have trouble paddling or pedaling, motor-driven kayaks are the perfect solution for you. It will give you speed that pedaling or paddling can not attain.
Weight capacity and Storage :
Another factor that must be considered is the weight capacity of your kayak. Your body weight, along with all the supplies you bring, ultimately contributes to the total weight.
The weight rating of the kayak shows the total weight it can carry while floating on the water. It is advisable never to cross the weight capacity limit as it reduces safety.
Storage capacity should be considered because you have to bring some essentials with you, whether you go for a short trip or a one-day trip. Having sufficient storage will be an enormous help for you, especially if you are kayaking with children.
Frequently asked questions:
Here are some answers to the most common questions that first-time kayakers often ask.
1. What is the difference between a canoe and a kayak?
In a canoe, the riders have to kneel, and a single-bladed paddle is used, whereas in a kayak, riders can sit, and a double-bladed paddle is used.
2. Can kayak flip easily?
No, the designs of kayaks prevent them from flipping easily.
3. What should I wear?
Wear a dry suit or wet suit depending on the weather as it will give you protection from the sun.
4. Should you kayak alone?
Yes, you can kayak alone, but it is better to have someone with you in case of an emergency.
5. Where should the heavier person sit in a kayak?
The heavier person should sit at the back of the kayak to distribute the weight evenly.
6. Can kayaking be done with children?
Yes, kayaking can be done with children.
7. What kind of shoes should kayakers wear?
Shoes such as crocs are great as they have holes in them and float easily.
Conclusion:
The midwest watercraft kayak reviews have guided me like a north star in finding my perfect kayak. Once your search for the perfect kayak is over, you can finally glide through the cobalt blue water and enjoy it endlessly.
I hope this guide will answer all your questions, soothe all your confusion, and enable you to find your perfect kayak. With that hope, let us all kayak on!
