Before we discuss choosing a kayak, it's necessary to determine what kind of environment you'll primarily kayak in. All types of kayaks can flounder across any water surface. But, certain models of kayaks are made to work in specific environments. You can consider a kayak to be a vehicle. All cars can operate on solid terrain, but the kayak isn't designed to withstand the terrain.

Kayaks are like kayaks in that they're each designed to perform optimally in the context of the environment they're intended for. In general terms there are two kinds of water-based environments. An inland water environment includes smaller rivers, lakes, bays, inlets, ponds, canals and other smaller bodies of water. Open water is the term used to describe any other large bodies of water like oceans or seas and larger lakes or rivers. You will have a completely different experience kayaking on a small lake or narrow river, based on whether you're going to paddle in an open sea large lake or small river.

1. Lakes & Pounds
Imagine floating on a tranquil lake or pond. Learn More is possible to enjoy a tranquil paddle on smaller lakes or ponds, regardless of whether you're doing some fishing, exercising or just relaxing from the bustle of shore life. However when kayaking on a bigger lake can increase the likelihood of facing waves that may pose a danger for you and your boat.

2. Rivers And Canals
There are a variety of rivers that are located within these rivers. You might find a peaceful flowing river or some that offer exciting experiences as you fight in whitewater rapids. It doesn't matter what degree of expertise the waterways are able to change at any moment. The speed and activity level of their currents, both on and beneath the surface, can dramatically increase or decrease in an instant.

3. Seas And Oceans
Like rivers, oceans , and seas are affected by weather. Although it may be easier to navigate through this body of water by staying close to shore, other factors such as winds, tides and storms could pose challenges for kayakers.

Types And Uses Of Kayaks

The kind of terrain isn't the only thing you need to think about when deciding on which kayak to purchase. What you'll make use of the kayak is equally important. The kayak can be taken anywhere, and you can explore numerous lakes, rivers, streams and seas. Imagine your perfect kayaking adventure. Are you going to be fishing or relaxing? Are you planning to compete against others or paddle great distances?

There are a variety of kayaks and their uses range from light recreational paddling to extreme whitewater rapid navigation. Before we divide the vessels into specific activities kinds, let's take a look at kayaks in a general sense.

Sit-On-Top Kayks
Sit-on top kayaks have seating that sits situated on the kayak's surface so that the paddler is able to see the water.

Benefits of Sit-On-Top Kayaks

Self-bailing: While you kayak, your vessel may take on water. If water were to get into the cockpit of your sit-in-kayak, you would have to release it on your own. Sit-on-top kayaks come with the scupper holes that let water drain.

Sit-on-top kayaks are more mobile over sit-in kayaks. Inside of the cockpit of a sit-in kayak you're limited in how much you can move around, which means that you'll face an additional obstacle when getting in and out of water. A sit-on-top kayak, however, allows you to move into and out of the water swiftly and effortlessly.

Sit-In Kayaks
Sit-in kayaks come with an enclosed area where you can sit. The kayak's surface is lower than the paddler's.

Sit-In Kayaks: The Advantages
Greater control: Though the kayaks are both stable however a sit-in model can give you more control. Along with your positioning and position, keeping your rear feet and knees close to the kayak will help you move more quickly.

Sun, warmth, and dryness protection: Since your whole body is inside a kayak that sits on top there is a chance of getting wet. This could be acceptable for warmer climates. But, those who plan to kayak in colder climates or during the changing seasons might prefer not to get wet. Sit-in kayaks keep the lower half of your body beneath the deck, which could limit the amount of water you can be or how much sun exposure you get. They also shield you from rain, wind and snow by the cockpit.

Touring Kayaks
These boats, sometimes referred to as recreational kayaks are typically more modern than the regular recreational kayaks. They are narrow and long typically around 12 feet in length. They are equipped with smaller cockpits so that the kayaker is able to fall over themselves should they fall over. Kayaks for touring can be used for distance and speed.