Types of Kayaks

There are many different types of kayaks; each has its own intended use. In case you’re in the market for a new kayak or are new to kayaking, we hope this guide to kayaks will help you determine which type of kayak is right for you.

Sit-on-Top Kayaks

There are many advantages to the sit-on-top kayak (SOT kayak), especially for first-time paddlers. The advantages include; most user-friendly of the different types of kayaks, very stable, easy to launch, easy to get in and out, and also have scupper holes that allow water to drain from the kayak.

SOT kayaks are designed to allow the paddler to sit on the deck of the kayak with their legs and gear exposed. Other kayaks that we’ll discuss shortly cover the legs and are more difficult to get in and out.

Sit-on-top kayaks are best for:

• Beginners
• Diving (easy to get in and out)
• Family Recreation
• Paddling on calm lakes and low surf waters

Sit-on-top kayaks are good for:

• Camping
• Fishing

Although sit-on-top kayaks are good for campers, they can often be a little bulky and lack storage areas. You probably know from experience that the more storage for camping, the better. The same is true for the SOT kayak, the more storage areas for your kayaking gear and accessories, the better.

Sit-on-top kayaks are bad for:

• Racing
• Rapids
• Ocean/Sea Surf

We highly recommend these sit-on-top kayaks that are available at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Sit-Inside Kayaks

Sit-Inside kayaks are some of the most popular types of kayaks. These kayaks are usually a bit more narrow than sit-on-top kayaks. As a rule of thumb when deciding which type of kayak is right for you, consider that the wider the kayak, the more stable yet slower. If a kayak like a sit-inside kayak is narrower, it is often faster and less stable.

Sit-Inside kayaks are best for:

• Beginners
• Fishing
• Family Recreation
• Camping
• Low to moderate surf waters

Sit-Inside kayaks are good for:

• Racing

Sit-Inside kayaks are bad for:

• Tanning your legs
• Diving

We recommend these top-rated sit-inside kayaks for sale at Dick’s.

Whitewater Kayaks

Whitewater kayaks are perfect for all of you action junkies out there. Whitewater kayaking can be one of the most dangerous outdoor hobbies you can get into, so it’s important that the kayak is built to withstand fast moving rivers, sharp rocks, and quick maneuverability to say the least.

Whitewater kayaks are best for:

• Rapids / fast-moving rivers and streams
• Racing

Whitewater kayaks are good for:

• Paddling around lakes, rivers, and shallow water
• Camping

Whitewater kayaks are bad for:

• Fishing
• Diving
• Family Recreation

If you’re interested in whitewater kayaking as a hobby, consider these best selling whitewater kayaks from ColoradoKayak.com.