Checklist

If you're thinking about buying a kayak, here's what to consider.

You'll find that small details either make or break a kayak for you. Those details won't be obvious if the kayak is sitting on a shop shelf. The first rule is to pick a retailer who lets you try a range of kayaks before you buy.

Weight

Can you lift your kayak? Carrying your kayak from the garage to the car-roof and then from the car to the shore requires muscle power. Weight is also a factor on the water: a heavier kayak can be harder to paddle.

Size

Bigger kayaks are unwieldy to carry. And where are you going to store it? Make sure it fits into your garage.

Handles

Solid handles will make transportation easier. Check for kayaks that come with a handy travelling wheel lodged in the bow or stern.

Stability

Good stability is an important feature for beginners. But make sure that greater stability doesn't come at the cost of sleekness, as wider kayaks often take more effort to paddle.

Cockpit

Your cockpit needs to be a snug fit, while allowing you to enter and exit easily. If your cockpit is too wide, you'll have to reach out from side to side when you paddle. If it's too cramped, you'll find it difficult to bail out if you tip over.

Seat

A poor backrest will make extended kayak trips uncomfortable. Make sure that the backrest provides you with enough support, and that the form-fit seat fits your form.

Paddles

Paddles vary in length and weight depending on the type of kayak. Sea kayaks have longer, lighter paddles with smaller blades. White-water kayaks have short paddles made from stronger and heavier materials. Expect to pay more for the lighter paddles in each kayak type.

Compartments

Some kayaks come with compartments built into the hull. Well-designed compartments are waterproof and sealed around a bulkhead. This means that the hull doesn't flood (and your kayak doesn't sink) if you're suddenly submerged with the compartment open. Unsealed compartments mustn't be opened while on the water.

Hydrodynamics

A hydrodynamic kayak cuts through the water with minimum effort, but this sleekness needs to be balanced with stability. Some kayaks also "track" better than others. This means that you don't have to re-adjust direction with each stroke.