Kayaks

Wetsuit vs Drysuit The Ultimate Comparison Guide

September 29, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

Wetsuit vs Drysuit: What are the Differences?

Many people (including myself originally) get a bit confused when you talk to them about Wetsuits and Drysuits. Sure they may look a bit similar but the differences are significant, especially in colder water. In this guide we will be talking about the main differences between wetsuits and drysuits. Many people don’t realise that wetsuits and drysuits overlap into different sports and hobbies. The main ones are..

Kayaking
Paddle Boarding/ Surfing/ Wakeboarding
Scuba Diving/ Snorkleling

We will be focusing on these main sports/ hobbies when comparing the two styles.

What is a Drysuit?

What exactly is a drysuit? Well like the name entails a dry suit is a full piece body suit that is meant to keep your body dry from colder water. They are usually required around water that is 55 F and below or in ugly weather conditions. They offer full protection from cold water and air temperatures because they are constructed from multiple layers of fabric. They are meant to insulate your body and create a second waterproof skin. Depending on what you are using the drysuit for there are different ways to layer them depending on your activity, we will go through that for each section below. In general drysuits are usually more expensive due to the quality of materials going into the layering and can be found within the $400- $1000 range depending on the drysuit.

Drysuit Anatomy:

The Inner Shell:

The Inner shell is the lining within the drysuit that is made of different materials depending on the manufacturer. It could be made of thermal fabric, neoprene rubber or synthetic material. Materials are often dependant on the activity that you are doing. The Inner shell is usually within close contact of your body.

Outer Membrane:

The outer membrane is the part you see and what protects your body from colder water seeping in. It is usually made of a thin layer of nylon or rubber and has a baggy fit. It is baggy because they are designed to not restrict your movements.

The Seal:

What would be a drysuit if water seeped in through your wrists, ankles and neck? Drysuits have compressed rubber rings that prevent water from seeping into those areas.

Separate Items to Get:

Usually when out in colder water temperatures you need to wear more than just a drysuit. Other accessories include toques, gloves, boots, fleeces helmets, hoods and wide variety of other accessories that are activity dependent (more on that below).

What is a Wetsuit?

A wetsuit is a from fitting suit that is made of neoprene. This neoprene is not waterproof but rather keep a thin layer of water trapped between the suit and your skin. This allows your body temperature to warm up the water trapped and create a level of water insulation that is reflected upon your body temperature. Wetsuits are made for water temperatures of between 55 F and 70 F but a lot of this is also dependant on what the weather conditions are doing. Wetsuits come on many more varieties than drysuits in terms of style and thickness.There are Full body wetsuits, long john, short john, tops and bottoms, we will explain these below. A general rule of thumb is that wetsuits that are thicker and have more coverage are better designed for colder waters and vice versa.

Wetsuit Styles:

Full Wetsuit:

This is a full body wetsuit that covers you from neck to ankles. You will usually use these wetsuits in cooler water temperatures. These are the more expensive wetsuits that can run you anywhere from $150 to $600 and up!

Long/ Short John Wetsuits:

These wetsuits are the sleeveless and can come as a full body wetsuit or be cut off from knees. These wetsuits are better for water temperatures that are a bit warmer or for paddle sports such as Paddle Boarding or Kayaking.

Tops and Bottoms:

Some people prefer to wear one or the other or both so that their movements are not restricted. Tops and Bottoms are usually a preference for water sports that require full body movements like surfing and wake surfing. They are usually worn in warmer conditions.

Separate Items to Get:

Wetsuits typically do not require as much layering as Drysuits as they are not used in temperatures that are as cold. Still there are some accessories that you can use to protect you from the elements. Some accessories include a hood, gloves, swimsuit or rashguard is conditions are a bit more chilly.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Kayaking

Wetsuits and drysuits are essential items to have when you are figuring out what to wear when kayaking in any water temperatures that dip below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. According to Cold Water Boot Camp of the 410 people that have drowned in Canada 130 of them were by boating and 60% of them drowned in water under 10 C (50 Fahrenheit). I can almost guarantee you that these people drowned because they were not wearing the proper equipment to go boating in. It also went on to say that only 12% were actually wearing a lifejacket (or PFD) and 2% were wearing one improperly.

Wearing a Drysuit when Kayaking:

best pfd for kayaking. best kayaks — photo by worldwaits

I would consider a drysuit in colder climates where both the air temperatures and water temperatures are below 55 F. I live in Canada, so while in the summer in most conditions a drysuit is overkill but in the winter it is essential. When doing any sort of kayaking in colder conditions you are dressing for IF you flip over. Chances are you will flip your kayak at some point so you definitely don’t want to chance it when you are winter kayaking.

Drysuit Layering:

If wearing a drysuit it is recommended that you wear a PFD, long underwear, a drysuit liner and a thick fleece. While drysuits do protect you from cold water they do not protect you from cold air temperatures so layer accordingly. Additional accessories you may want to wear includes paddling gloves, a toque, waterproof shoes and socks.

Wearing a WetSuit when Kayaking:

Wetsuits are good for kayaking in water that is between 70 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal setup when kayaking is to wear a drysuit that is sleeveless. This is because often times you will be doing a continuous paddling motion. With a full body suit there may be chafing that happens in areas that are constantly moving so it is best to get a Short John, or Long John suit depending on the water temperatures. When looking at wetsuit thickness think of the type of climate you will be using this wetsuit in. The thicker the wetsuit the more insulation it gives you in cooler water and air temperatures.

Wetsuit Layering:

Layering is more varied with wetsuits because there is a bigger variety of conditions you can layer for. Often times you just need a bathing suit underneath hats and sunscreen in warmer conditions. In cooler conditions and climates you could be wearing a thicker wetsuit neoprene socks, water shoes and gloves. Don’t forget to wear a proper PFD in all conditions!

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Paddle Boarding Surfing and Wakeboarding

When choosing a wetsuit vs a drysuit for board sports like surfing, paddle boarding and wakeboarding you are looking at what the weather conditions are. Unlike kayaking using a drysuit is a bit more rare because typically these water sports are done in warmer temperatures but there are exceptions to every rule. Even though a drysuit is a bit more restrictive in movement it is still a good idea to wear them in temperatures that are below 55 F.

By far wearing a wetsuit when doing any of these board sports is the most common because they tend to happen in temperate and warm climates and are generally not restrictive in nature.

Wearing a Drysuit when Paddle Boarding, surfing and Wakeboarding**

To be honest drysuits are not specifically designed for board sports and fit paddle boarding better than wakeboarding or surfing because you are not moving your body as much. Drysuits are more designed for cold water diving and paddle boarding. Specifically for surfing they really hamper your ability to surf because they are more baggy in nature and they tend to slow you down in the water.

Wearing a Drysuit for Paddle Boarding

drysuit vs westuit — by http://suppdx.com

It is only reasonable to be wearing a drysuit when paddle boarding really. When paddle boarding I would use the same set up as kayaking where you dress for the weather. Include a Fleece, drysuit liner, toque (non cotton), waterproof shoes and socks. The latter two are important as your feet will constantly be getting wet from moving around and waves slapping against your board.

Wearing a Wetsuit when Paddle Boarding

Paddle Boarding can be a bit more difficult to prepare for but if you use the kayaking rule of thumb: “Dress like you’re going to go into the water” it makes it a bit easier. I will say you do not have to go as extreme into wetsuit attire as surfing because you are not going to be constantly in the water. You just need something that will keep you warm if you do happen to fall in a time or two, but this is also dependant on your experience. In warm summer like conditions of 65 Degrees and over you can just wear board shorts, swimsuit and maybe a shirt if it is warm enough. When the Water temperature starts dropping below 65 degrees then it’s time to consider a wetsuit or the very least a rashguard if you are going to be close to shore.

There are a variety of different kinds of wetsuits you can wear. Paddle Boarders typically like the sleeveless kind because it does not constrict their paddling motion. This is especially crucial if you are into touring SUP’s or paddling long distances. In colder temperatures you can layer your Rashguard with your wetsuit for more insulation. This method will also save your from any skin irritations or chaffing that may occur.

Wearing a Wetsuit when Surfing

Wetsuits are most ideal for surfing anywhere outside of the tropics and are great for the flexibility needed to balance, steer and paddle your board while catching waves. When choosing a wetsuit you

need to first ask yourself a few questions.

How Cold is it?
How Often do you surf?
How it Fits

The temperature of the water will affect how thick your wetsuit will be. You can find the water temperature of your area just by doing a quick search. Here is a guideline courtesy of the Surfing Site

Temperature	Clothing
80 – 74 degrees	A Rash Guard
73 – 66 degrees	2mm Neoprene Top or Springsuit
65 – 58 degrees	2mm Long Sleeve Springsuit or 3/2mm full suit
58 – 55 degrees	3/2mm full suit + booties
54 – 49 degrees	4/3mm full suit + booties
49 – 43 degrees	5/4mm full suit + booties + hood
42 degrees & below	6/5mm full suit + booties+ hood
Antarctica	Dry suit + booties + hood

How often you surf ultimately depends of you but if the water temperature is cold year round and you love to surf chances are you will be getting more use out of it and should be getting a good quality wetsuit.

Another important factor when it comes to wetsuits is how well it fits your body. A good fitting wetsuit should be snug and fit like a second pairing of skin. A good way of testing this out is by raising your hands up in the air and only feel the slightest bit restricted. If you are unable to do this than it is too small. Some good quality wetsuit brands include Billabong, Quicksilver, Rip Curl, O’Neill and Body Glove.

Wearing a Wetsuit when Wakeboarding

Although Wakeboarding is primarily done during warmer weather and water temperatures, you can extend your season by a few months if you decide to wear a wetsuit. Because you are doing similar movements to surfing you can look at the wetsuit guide for surfing above and most of it will apply to Wakeboarding.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Compared to Kayaking and Board Sports you are in the water for far longer so knowing what to wear in what temperature is crucial. Leisurepro provides a quick table to refer to.

Temperature	Recommended Suit Thickness
76°F – 86°F	1.6mm Neoprene or Lycra Dive Skin/Wetsuit
69°F – 84°F	3mm Neoprene Wetsuit
64° – 77°F	5mm Neoprene Wetsuit
49°F – 75°F	6.5mm Neoprene Wetsuit
33°F – 66°F	9.5mm Neoprene Drysuit

The main differences between wetsuits and drysuits is that drysuits are used in very cold water conditions and are loose fitting while wetsuits are used for temperate to colder conditions when diving.

Wearing a Drysuit While Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Drysuits for diving purposes are made differently than drysuits for kayaking. There are two types of drysuits for diving purposes, membrane and neoprene. Membrane drysuits are made up of a number of different layers of material that are meant to keep you dry. These suits are best for conditions of that are temperate to ice cold temperatures. When using these drysuits layering is still very important so you may need to pack some sort of undergarment to keep you insulated.

Neoprene drysuits are warmer then their membrane cousins and are better if you like a tighter feel or are used to wearing wetsuits. These wetsuits are a bit more durable but can stretch out over time so proper care is warranted.

Other Important Accessories and considerations:

Socks
Choosing Latex, Neoprene or Silicone Seals
Gloves
Zipper Placement (Based on Personal Preference)
Pockets or no Pockets

When choosing a correct drysuit it is important to think long term and to get something that will fit you well. Choosing a well known brand is often a wise decision. More on drysuits here.

Wearing a WetSuit for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Wetsuits are ideal for divers that dive in warmer to temperate waters. The sweet spot temperatures typically range from 50F to 90F but are also dependant on weather, climate etc.

Most of these wetsuits are made of neoprene that isolates you. You choose the style of wetsuit you want based on the water temperature you are diving in. Thicker wetsuits will provide more insulation and will allow less water in while thinner wetsuits allow more water in and provide less insulation. The thickness of these wetsuits ranges typically from 3mm to 7mm, 3mm is for warmer waters and 7mm is for colder water temperatures. Just to further complicate things wetsuits come in a wide variety of different styles..

Short Style or “Shortie”:

This wetsuit is a one peice but has short sleeves and the knees cut off. These wetsuits are ideal for warmer temperatures

Full One Piece Wetsuit:

Pretty much a full wetsuit that comes in a variety of different sizes and thicknesses. The most common being 3mm, 5mm and 7mm.

Two Piece (or Farmer John Style):

This wetsuit does not have any sleeves (hense farmer John name) that comes in different thicknesses. More ideal for temperate to warmer temperatures.

I recommend trying some styles and seeing which best suits you are your movements.

Other Important Accessories and Considerations:

Hoods
Socks
Gloves
Zipper Placement

Conclusion

Choosing between a wetsuit and a drysuit is not as hard as many think. Simply decide..

What Activity You Will be Doing
Figure out What the Water Temperature will be
How Much Insulation you will need
How Much you are Able to Spend

Simply put in most cases in water temperatures that are under 55F it is best to slip on that drysuit. Anything above 55 F and 70 F is Wetsuit weather.

Derek

Derek is a keen water sports enthusiast who has over 20 years of experience in canoes, kayaking and more recently paddle boarding. On weekends he can usually be found on some sort of floating device be it a kayak, paddle board or even a floatie on his lazy days.

Some of his favourite memories include: snorkelling in Cozumel, Mexico, paddling with seals in White Rock, Canada and trying SUP Surfing in Tofino B.C. . When he is not working on his website or paddling he enjoys motor sports and ice hockey.

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What to Wear When Kayaking: A Kayaking Clothing Guide

September 21, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

What to Wear When Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air that nature can provide. It is personally one of my favorite ways of getting exercise and refreshing my mind after what could be a stressful week. Unfortunately figuring out what to wear when kayaking can get a bit over complicated because of various different conditions and circumstances.

What I will say is a great rule of thumb is dress as if you are about to go overboard! A good way to understand what you need to wear is figuring out what the water temperature will be and dressing accordingly (we will get to that in a second). NOAA (National Centers for Environmental Information) provides you with what the average water temperature in your area is. The second step is to find out what the air temperature, and weather is. You can look at any weather websites for information on this. More times than not this won’t happen but this one bit of criteria really helps you understand what you need to wear and bring with you just in case.

Below is a chart that states hypothermia risks based on water temperature

Water Temperature	Hypothermia Risk	Appropriate Clothing
60°F and up	Low	Clothing for the Weather
55-59°F	Moderate	Wetsuit or Drysuit Depending on Conditions
45-54°F	High	Drysuit
below 45°F	Extreme	Drysuit

Clothing to Avoid when Kayaking:

Do not wear anything cotton! Cotton absorbs water so if you take a spill in the water you will be surrounded by wet and damp clothing that will make you feel more cold for longer. Cotton absorbs more than 27 times its own weight in water and takes a long time to dry which is not good for your body due to the fact you are colder for a longer period of time.

Instead look for quick drying fabric such as synthetic fiber, polyester or quick drying nylon. These materials do not absorb nearly as much water as cotton and can be the difference between getting hypothermia and staying dry.

Quick Hint: Polyester does not absorb ANY water

The Anatomy of a Kayaker: Kayaking Essentials

Kayaking requires different layers for different water and weather conditions so here is a list of clothing that is available to kayakers and what conditions they are used for.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Kayaking.

I will not go too much into this in this article but we did a separate article on wetsuits vs drysuits. I will share a good video on this topic below.

Kayak Drysuit Setup

Kayak Drysuits are made for colder weather conditions like cold water surf, rapids or really rainy days. They are made to keep you completely insulated from water should you flip your kayak over. Drysuits are usually in the form of a full body suit (think like a racing suit but waterproof) that consists of a waistband, jacket and leggings. These suits provide ample protection from water but are not insulated so you may have to wear a fleece or a drysuit liner to keep you warm.

Drysuit Layering:
long underwear, drysuit liner and a thick fleece for colder conditions. For warmer conditions you can stick to the drysuit liner and dysuit with your PFD. Waterproof shoes and socks, toque and gloves are also highly recommended for colder conditions.

Kayak Wetsuit Setup

Often times people get wetsuits and drysuits mixed up but their name is what it entails really. Kayak Wetsuits do not keep water out like drysuits, rather they absorb water so that a thin layer is trapped next to you skin that is eventually warmed by your body temperature. They are more commonly used by surfers and scuba divers and come in different varieties. Some are full body, some are sleeveless, some include only a top or bottom layer and some do not include sleeves or pant legs. Generally you will not need a full body wetsuit for kayaking but instead a sleeveless one. This is because fully sleeved wetsuits are often quite restrictive in nature, especially when doing a paddling motion constantly.

Which one you choose ultimately depends on what kind of kayaking you are doing, how cold the water temperature is and what style is most comfortable to you. A kayak wetsuit is geared more towards more manageable weather that is present in the spring and fall time where the temperature is mild and the water temperature may still be cool.

Wetsuit Layering:
Usually all you need is a swimsuit underneath. Wetsuits come in a wide variety of different variations and thicknesses so choose one which best corresponds to the water conditions you are paddling in. Other accessories include a PFD, water shoes with neoprene socks, hats, sunscreen and polarised sunglasses to reduce the glare of the water if it is sunny out.

Other Layering Options:

Typically when you go this route the water and air temperature is warm enough to not worry about hypothermia and you will be paddling closer to shore. When choosing other kayak clothing options you have a wide variety of different options to choose from. They can range from swim shorts, kayaking shorts, kayak pants, rash guards.

A light Fleece (that is not cotton) and a rain jacket should be packed just in case of changing conditions. I know in B.C. this is always the case so we make sure we pack for rain.

What to Wear for Recreational Kayaking:

Recreational Kayaking is usually done in calmer waters like lakes or bays and is typically done in the summertime This category includes sit on top, fishing and recreational kayaks that you own or kayaks that you may rent from a rental shop.

Typically you use these types of kayaks in warmer conditions like the summertime and the outfit is usually pretty basic because they are more stable in simple flat water conditions.

1.What to Wear for Recreational Kayaking in the Summertime: ....

A light Fleece (that is not cotton) and a rain jacket should be packed just in case of changing conditions. I know in B.C. this is always the case so we make sure we pack for rain.

What to Wear for Recreational Kayaking in Cooler Conditions

65- 45 Degree Water Temperature

Even though Recreational kayaks are different beasts from Sea Kayaks you should be prepared in the same way. In warmer conditions (65- 55 F) You can wear a wetsuit. In colder conditions (55 F and Below)you should wear a drysuit with it’s proper components. Find out more about Kayaking in Cool Weather below.

What to Wear Sea Kayaking:

Sea Kayaking is the next step in terms of natural kayaking progression. As a result your preparation takes that next step as well because you can cover a greater distance in a shorter period of time with these kayaks. You are also able to paddle through more difficult water conditions which heightens the danger of you flipping your kayak. Being prepared includes knowing what to do when your sea kayak flips over and dressing for the worst case scenario.

Sea Kayakers are often a more passionate kayaking group so as a result they tend to paddle in all sorts of different weather conditions. From Summer, Fall, Spring and Winter, chances are if there is water out you will see a sea kayaker out and about.

1. What to Wear Sea Kayaking in the Summer: ....

80-65 Degree Water Temperature

When using a sea kayak in the summer dress for the water temperature not the air temperature even if you are not planning on swimming.

If the water is warm like the air temperature then there is not a ton of preparation you need to do. At this point you are mostly planning on protecting yourself from the sun so bring lots of sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses to keep the glare off of you face when you are in the water.

A light long sleeve shirt and surf/ board shorts do the trick as well as water shoes and sandals and a PFD of course.

Light long sleeve shirt (polyester or synthetic)
Shorts
Hat
Sunglasses
PFD
Spray Skirt is recommended
Whistle
Sunscreen
Sandals or Water Shoes

2. What to Wear Sea Kayaking in the Spring/ Fall

65- 55 Degree Water Temperature

If the water is a colder temperature but the air temperature is still warm this is where things get a bit more tricky. I would first recommend a spray skirt as this will keep drips of cold water out of your kayak completely.

In these conditions I would recommend wearing a rash guard or a wetsuit. If it is too hot for this then you can still wear shorts but be sure that you are close to shore incase you capsize.

In colder conditions I reccomend that you gear closer towards a winter setup. Use Wet suits in calmer conditions and dry suits in conditions where the water is less predictable like surf, rapids or bad weather type of conditions.

Wetsuits (if Conditions are calm)
Drysuits (if Conditions are rough and you need insulation)
PFD
Sprayskirt
Quick drying shirts (nylon or polyester)
Swimsuit in Warmer Conditions
Long Underwear in Colder Conditions
Light Fleece or Rain Jacket if conditions are colder
Neoprene Paddling booties
Waterproof socks
Hats
Gloves (if cold)

3. Sea Kayaking in the Winter (What to Wear Kayaking in Cool Weather)

55- 45 and Below Degree Water Temperature

Kayaking in the Winter can be truly magnificent but can be very dangerous if you are not prepared with the proper safety protocol. It can be even more dangerous if you are not wearing the right gear for the job. Layering is crucial as you will need to use a drysuit setup to protect yourself from the cold water and the colder outside temperature you will be encountering. What I will say about drysuits is that they do not provide a heck of a lot of insulation so make sure to have a fleece or a drysuit liner underneath to insure that you are fully insulated.

What to Wear Whitewater Kayaking:

If you are whitewater kayaking chances are the water will be cold because more times than not it will be a river flowing down from the mountains. Whitewater kayaking is a sport that needs more training and experience than any other kayaking related activity so the first step would be to do some white water kayaking courses.

If you are well versed in whitewater kayaking and you want your own gear you will need to suit up with at least the gear below.

PFD
Helmet
Sprayskirt
A Drysuit or a Drytop in Colder Water
Wetsuit that is in a sleeveless in warmer waters
Kayaking Shoes, Neoprene booties or Water Shoes
Throwbag
Knife
Drybags
Paddling Gloves of Pogies

Why is it Important to Wear a PFD when Kayaking?

For any circumstance that you are kayaking I highly recommend that you wear a PFD. I don’t mean in the sense where you throw it in the cockpit and just forget about it. I mean actually wearing it!

A study was done that drowning accounted for 70% of boating fatalities and that 86% could of easily been avoided by simply wearing a PFD or life jacket . The statistics went onto state that the drowning fraction was higher for smaller vessels such as kayaks and paddle boards.

I won’t go to much into PFD’s in this article as we have PFD’s for kayaking and PFD’s for Paddle Boarding related articles that go into much more detail about these important topics.

What to Pack for Kayak Camping Gear?

All of the topics we have covered so far have been about what to wear for day trips. What about Multi -Day trips? What do you wear for those trips and what are you bringing with you? This all depends on where you are going, what the air and water temperature is and for how long. Here is a basic checklist for clothing that you can follow along with. I recently wrote a Guest Post on Natpacker about the Complete Multi Day Kayaking Adventure Checklist for a more indepth look at what you can bring on a multi day kayaking adventure.

Kayak Clothing to Bring Camping

Synthetic Underwear
Land Underwear
Long Sleeve Shirts
Swim Trunks
Wetsuit (or Drysuit if you are in a cold wet location)
Synthetic socks
Land Clothes
PJ’s
Gloves
Hats
Sunglasses (2 Pairs incase you lose one!)
Socks for Land
Kayaking pants (if no wetsuit)
Rashguard (if no wetsuit)
Land Pants
Rain Jacket

Conclusion

When kayaking it is important to be able to choose the right attire before heading out on the water. Here are some simple steps to do so.

Decide what kind of kayaking you want to do
Check Air and Water Temperature in your area
Important** Bring your PFD
Decide what paddling clothes you need to wear
1. Dry Suit for Wet, Rough and Colder Conditions
2. Wetsuit for Temperate Conditions
3. Simple Shorts or swim suit if water and air temperature is warm
Pack Accessories that you may need for your kayak adventure
Get Paddling and be safe!

Derek

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Best Pedal Kayak and Informational Guide

September 7, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

Best Pedal Kayaks Over and Under $2,000 Full Guides

Pedal kayaks are a relatively new topic in the kayaking industry and they certainly have made a splash, especially in the last 5 years. Probably one of the first things you look at when you are looking for a pedal kayak is the price tag. Why are pedal kayaks almost $1000 more than their paddle wielding cousins? What are some of the advantages that you have when pedaling vs paddling? How does this relate to fishing kayaks? I’ll explain a bit below.

What is better a pedal kayak or a paddle kayak?

This comes down to personal preference but if you have been using a paddling type of kayak for a while then it may take a bit of time to get used to. Afterall you are using your hands and feet in completely different ways in that your feet will be doing a pedalling motion and your hands will be used through trolling and steering the kayak the direction you want to go.

If you are a traditional sea kayaker it may take a bit more time to get used to this as your feet and hands have completely switched positions in propulsion and steering.

Pedal Kayaks are Best for:

Hands free Control and casting while the boat is moving
Less Juggling between your paddle, fishing rod and tackle box
Utilising your strongest muscles in your body, your legs (more about this later on)
Lakes and coastal conditions with good clearance from the ocean floor
Faster on the water (faster time to get to your preferred honey hole or fishing spot)
Having more options in terms of accessories (especially Hobie Kayaks)
Better for paddling through currents and against the wind
Being more stealthy in the water (quieter)

Traditional Paddle Kayaks are Best for:

A more inexpensive price tag
Traditionalists and Fisherman who want simplicity
Have more variety to choose from
Better for shallow lakes, rivers and estuaries
Less maintenance
Being a lighter weight
Less Issues with theft

These are the most common differences between pedal and paddle kayaks so decide which qualities fit your fishing needs the best before having your heart set on one craft or the other.

Yak Motley Details more on his experiences as a fisherman below:

Now we realise that not everyone has just $2,000 laying around for a pedal kayak so we did a Best pedal kayak for the money section. Having said this the benchmarks of the industry are Hobie and Native in terms of getting a real good quality pedal fishing kayak.

Table of Contents

Best Pedal Kayaks for Fishing
The Best Pedal Kayaks for the Money (Under $2,000)
Pedal Kayak Features to Consider
Pedal Kayak On Water Behaviour
Conclusion

Best Pedal Kayaks for Fishing

#1 Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12

Pedal kayak

9.4/10 Rating

Very Stable
Lots of Stability fo Fly Fishing
Lots of add- on's Available You Can Add

Check Price

#2 Hobie Mirage Outback

Pedal Kayak

9.3/10 Rating

Supremely Comfortable
Spacious
Four Rod Holders

Check Price

#3 Native Watercraft Slayer 13 Propel

Pedal Kayak

8.5/10 Rating

400 lb Max Capacity
Biggest Challenger to Hobie
Rudder System could be Betetr

Check Price

These are the best of the best in terms of best pedal kayaks for fishing. In my mind Hobie is still in charge of the game, not just because they invented it but the fact that every few years they update their Mirage Drive and strive to make it better.

Now there are other fine pedal fishing kayaks available but in our minds Hobie takes the cake because of their innovation and versatility. The Mirage Drive is genius because it is not just propeller but more two fins that are designed like a penguins flippers. If you get into shallower water you simply do small pedal motions with your foot to avoid hitting the bottom. The price that you pay for these kayaks is well worth it if you are a fisherman who likes a lot of different options and operational uses.

The main difference between these pedal fishing kayaks and the ones that are below $2,000 is that the ones above $2,000 go that extra bit further in terms of providing useful accessories and making your time on the water as enjoyable and stress free as possible. They also have phenomenal customer support that are very happy to answer any questions you may have.

Why a pedal fishing kayak above $2,000?

More Features
Better Drivetrain
More potential to add add-ons
Fish Finder Mounting Available
Better Technology involved
Drive Train will be more Durable

Best Pedal Fishing Kayaks Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) below to see Full Reviews)

Hobie Mirage Pro Angler 12

Features

Easy to transport
Very strong and durable
Full range of motion due to the elevated seat
Very spacious
Great when its windy

The Hobie Pro Angler is a kayak that is 12-foot long. This makes it compact enough to put into any truck or rack above your car with ease. This makes it very easy to take from your home to the beach or the river. Since it is made of polyethylene, it is very strong when you compare it with other kayaks. The polyethylene material also allows it to carry a significant amount of weight. It can carry up to 500 pounds weight.

Since the Hobie Pro Angler has the capacity to hold six rods, it is great for fishing. It has four rod holders that are horizontal and two that are molded-in rod holders.

The seat is elevated giving you a full range of motion with this sit-on-top kayak.

You can customize the rigging as much as you want since it has H-Rail. You can easily add gear that you want to keep close to you including mesh pockets.

The Kayak comes with mounting boards that are replaceable and with dual steering. The kayak has a seal hatch and an 8 inch twist to keep your valuables safe.

>>What Customers Think<<

Most of the reviews about the Hobie Pro Angler are excellent. The users love it and found it spacious, strong and easy to carry. Even tall customers found it very comfortable to use and fish in. The seat is highly adjustable and with a weight carrying capacity of 350 pounds is more than enough for big people. Many customers commented on how easy it was to store things on this kayak. It is stable to stand on even when there are waves hitting the kayak.

See Our Full Review on the Pro Angler 12

What We Liked

Built for stability
Durable since its made of high-quality polyethylene
Very spacious
6 rod holders

What We Didn’t Like

Heavier than other kayaks in its range

Hobie Mirage Outback

Features

Vantage CT chair which is multi-adjustable
2 drink holders that are Molded-in
4 rod holders that are Molded-in
Cockpit is surrounded by storage wells that are molded-in
Lowrance-ready
Gear bucket

The Hobie Mirage Outback is a perfect kayak for fishing. It is very stable. It has tremendous speed and is very comfortable. You can manoeuvre the kayak easily. Even if you try to overturn in when you are in the sea, it is difficult to do so. This shows how stable it is.

It has height options so that you can adjust the seating as per your height. You can also recline using the Vantage CT seats. Along with the Hobie Outback you get a Mirage Drive 180. This helps in forward and reverse propulsion leaving your hands free. This is very helpful when you are fishing. You also get a paddle, rod holders and trays which are molded-in. There are spacious storage compartments.

The Hobie Mirage Outback is Lowrance-Ready so it is easy to install fish finder systems. It also has a gear bucket that can easily fit in the hatch. You can easily fit all your fishing gear in the stowage that is above and below the deck of the Hobie Mirage Outback.

>>What Customer Say<<

Customers say that the kayak is excellent and that they can fish while cruising as they don’t have to paddle. It is stable and spacious. The rudder and ST fins are standard but are fine. A few customers had an issue with delay in delivery of the kayak.

See Our Full Review on the Hobie Mirage Outback

What We Liked

What We Didn’t Like

Heavy
Expensive compared to other brands

Native Watercraft Slayer 13 Propel Pedal Fishing Kayak

Features

Dual rod holders which are flush mount
Holder facing forward to hold a cup
Waterproof storage hatch of 5 inches
400 pound weight capacity

The Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 13 is an excellent fishing machine. It can stop immediately and has a great casting distance. It can go over 4 miles per hour normally and can go over 5 miles per hour when the wind is on your side.

There is a dry hatch in the Slayer which is of 5 inches so you can store your things there. You get a padded carry handle and a 5 inch dry storage hatch with the Kayak. Since you can cast while standing on this kayak, you can cast for a longer distance as compared to when you are sitting.

You get two rod holders which are flush mounted and you also have a forward facing, right-handed rod holder. You can also use it as a cup holder.

One of the best features of the kayak is that it can easily carry weight of up to 400 pounds. It is 13-feet long so is very comfortable.

It has a lot of space and is easily customizable as per your needs.

>>What Customers Think<<

Overall customers really liked the Native Slayer Propel 13. They said that it was durable and gives you a lot of exercise along with being perfect for fishing. One of the customers mentioned that they took it fishing for an entire night and didn’t have any issues. He even fished in the choppy waters of the upper Niagara River without any problem. A few of the customers complained about the rudder system which isn’t very well designed.

What We Liked

Durable kayak
Excellent weight capacity
Front holder for a cup and dual rod holders

What We Didn’t Like

Heavy
Expensive compared to other brands

Best Pedal Kayak for the Money (Best Pedal Kayak below $2,000)

#1 Perception Pescador Pilot 12

Pedal kayak

8.2/10 Rating

525 Lb Maximum Capacity
Cheaper Price Tag
Not the Best for Rougher Waters

Check Price

#2 Hobie Mirage Compass

Pedal Kayak

8.0/10 Rating

The Cheapest Hobie
Easier to Load and Carry
Great Turning Radius

Check Price

#3 Brooklyn Solo Rover

Pedal Kayak

7.7/10 Rating

Great for Travelling Long Distances
Great in All Weather Conditions
Drive can get Stiff at Times

Check Price

Not everyone can just fork out the money to buy a higher end pedal kayak and that’s fine! If you know the benefits and limitations of owning a pedal kayak and just want something with good propulsion any of these kayaks would be an excellent choice for you.

The main differences to these and the more expensive pedal kayaks is that they lack some of the accessories and potential add-ons that technical fisherman would find handy. Still these kayaks make great fishing kayaks that you pay significantly less for.

Why a Pedal Fishing Kayak Below $2,000?

Less Expensive
Less complex
Easier to use
Great for fishing in non shallow lakes

Best Pedal Fishing Kayaks For the Money Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) below to see Full Reviews)

Perception Pescador Pilot 12 Pedal Kayak

Features

Zero draft adjustability with pilot drive
Fore and aft easy adjustment in the captain’s chair
Pods for bow storage, storage for bow tank-well and for stern tank-well.
It includes a rudder and a transducer scupper

When it comes to value for money, the Perception Pescador Pilot is an excellent sit-on-top affordable kayak. It is filled with features that make it perfect for fishing.

It includes pedal drive system. The Pilot Drive is designed so that you can use the kayak the whole day long without needing to use your hands. This way you can focus on fishing. The Captain’s Chair has on-the-fly gear tracks that are adjustable and has tension knobs.

This kayak has four rod holders that are molded-in, a transducer scupper, two YakAttack tracks, and two consoles for you to store mounting electronics.

>>What Customers Think<<

Most customers loved the kayak as it is a no-frills, inexpensive kayak which is great for fishing. It has a decent turning radius and good tracking. A few customers mentioned that it is difficult to use the kayak when you are offshore especially in rough weather. They also mentioned that the pedal drive system is a bit loud.

What We Liked

Great length
Comfortable
Focused on fishing
Great max weight capacity at 525 pounds

What We Didn’t Like

Heavy at 74 pounds
Difficult to use offshore in rough weather

Hobie Mirage Compass Pedal Kayak

Features

Stylish
Reputed brand
MirageDrive pedal system
Glide Technology

When it comes to kayaks, the Mirage brand is very well known. The Mirage Compass which is the latest addition Hobie’s fleet of kayaks is an excellent pedal kayak which is perfect for kayak fishing.

The kayak is simple and looks stylish. It uses the MirageDrive pedal system which has Glide Technology and is tested thoroughly and over the years. It glides through water giving you a very enjoyable experience.

The seat of the Mirage Compass is very light and comfortable as it is a mesh seat which makes it breathable. The Mirage Compass is very stable and comfortable as it has a flat deck if you want to stand and fish and it has an oversized cockpit.

The turning radius of the Mirage Compass is sharp so it is very easy to navigate and very nimble. You can easily turn it around even at tight corners with ease. Even though it is nimble, it can pick up excellent speed when it is in the water which makes it great when you want to pedal deeper in search of fish.

You get many accessories like molded-in rod holders and H-Track accessory mounts. You can even install a a Lowrance® fishfinder very easily on the Mirage Compass as it has a transducer cavity.

It has a seating capacity of one person but is very comfortable. It is slightly heavier than the above kayak at 68 pounds and has a weight capacity of 400 pounds which makes it excellent if you want to travel long distances.

>>What Customers Think<<

The customers mentioned that it is very comfortable to be in this kayak. If you are a large or tall person, stability may be an issue but you can use an out-rigger system. The seat is comfortable and you can fish for a very long time without feeling uneasy.

What We Liked

Great length
Comfortable
Focused on fishing
Great max weight capacity at 525 pounds

What We Didn’t Like

Heavy at 74 pounds
Difficult to use offshore in rough weather

Brooklyn Kayak Company BKC UH-PK11 Pedal Drive Solo Rover Kayak

Features

The Brooklyn Kayak BKC Pedal Drive Solo Rover Kayak is has a design which is perfect for kayak fishing. It is great for distance travelling too. You will love pedalling the kayak. The BKC has made sure that there are no extra and unnecessary accessories in the kayak which will increase its weight.

The kayak is very stable in water. It has a hull that is 10 feet and 8 inches long and is 34 inches in width. This makes it very stable. You can easily slide through choppy water, ride over currents and glide over water that is still with ease and grace.

Since the kayak is only 60 pounds, it is very easy to carry it back to your vehicle. You can carry it easily back to the vehicle because it has handles that are built-in at the stern and the bow and on both the sides of the hull.

The best feature of the kayak is its pedal system. It has bicycle-style pedals. These pedals turn a high-efficiency propeller. You can keep the paddle aside. This is a perfect way that you will be hands-free and can focus on your fishing. The pedals have straps which are adjustable. This helps you to secure your feet properly. You can remove the entire system if you wish when you want to use paddles or if you want better speed and power and want to to upgrade to a trolling motor.

>>What Customers Think<<

The customers were happy with this kayak. They found it easy to use, fast and within the budget. It is great value for money. It is very easy to fish when you are in this kayak and you can take it out in the roughest of weather and water conditions. A couple mentioned that an anchor would be great as that would help since you won’t have to constantly pedal.

What We Liked

Great for fishing and going long distances
Easy to use and navigate
Very steady in the water
Comfortable seat
Light-weight
All-weather fishing

What We Didn’t Like

The drive system of the kayak is a bit stiff

Pedal Kayak Features to Consider

When looking for the best pedal kayak for your fishing needs there are some important factors you have to consider.

Pedal Kayak Price

What is your budget when shopping for a pedal drive fishing kayak? If money is not an issue then spending more money on a higher quality boat will give you more enjoyment and ease of use in the long run. If not this is not a huge issue as there are still some great vessels to be had.

I get many questions from folks over why pedal fishing kayaks cost more than paddle fishing kayaks. The main reason is that it costs significantly more for the fishing kayak companies to include a pedal drive to their kayaks. The increased cost goes towards high quality technology such as sealed bearings,alloys, research and development as well as hull reinforcement. A hull from say a SUN DOLPHIN EXCURSION kayak would not be able to take the increased strain on the plastic. As a result they need to be reinforced and bulked up.

Pedal Kayak Weight

This is often overlooked but is probably one of the most important factors when choosing a pedal kayak. On average pedal kayaks are a lot heavier than their paddling counterparts because they have more reinforced plastic on top of the pedal drive. As a result you have to disassemble the drive out of the kayak whenever you are on the road. I will also say that it is a lot harder to transport a kayak with a pedal drive unless you are really strong and have a buddy with you or have a good system to get your kayak onto a car. Otherwise you may require a kayak trailer.

When getting to and from the water a KAYAK CART is also recommended to get you from point A to B without straining your back on the way back from the water. This is especially useful if you are by the coast and you have to walk your kayak to and from the beach.

Pedal Kayak Features

Before choosing which pedal Yak I highly recommend that you look at the features of each craft and ask yourself “Am I going to be using this feature” This question alone will probably get you 50% of the way there when choosing a pedal fishing kayak. If you are a more serious fisherman I would say that more features will be better for you. If you are a fishing hobbyist or someone who comes down to the lake every so often to plump a bobber in the water then I would go on to say that no you won’t need a ton of features available to you.

Hull Shape and Size of the Pedal kayak

Many of these pedal kayaks prefer to go the route of being a bit bigger a bulky to accommodate those fisherman who want to stand up and fish off of them. This is all great for fresh water and calm bays but when things get really wavy or windy this extra bulk will be more a nuisance than anything else. If you want a pedal kayak that can fish in open water conditions then choose a hull that is narrower and less bulky.

Pedal Kayak On Water Behaviour

Problems with Shallow Water

The achilles heel to all pedal fishing kayaks is that they are very limited in terms of shallow water usage. If you are a fisherman who likes to cast from the shallows and brush it will difficult to do so with a pedal drive. Thankfully many pedal kayaks actually have the option of being able to take out the pedal drive from the kayak so that you can accomplish this. If you are a fisherman who fishes in the brush but also likes to go in deeper waters consider this when looking for a pedal kayak.

best pedal kayak — photo by @beardedgloryoutdoors

Lake Fishing in a Pedal Kayak

Pedal kayaks are better suited to larger lakes as you can really use your pedal power to get to a favored fishing spot quickly. Their stable platforms also means that you can stand up and ‘sight fish” if the water is clear enough or simply fly fish. A lot of these pedal kayaks are built to be able to stand and fish off of so large lakes are the ideal environments for these yaks. For this reason lots of tournament anglers are switching from paddle power to pedal power.

Ocean Fishing in a Pedal Kayak

This is a bit more of a tricky matter. Pedal kayaks are great for oceans if the conditions are right and preferably you are closer to shore. I say this because pedal kayaks are not necessarily made to be fishing miles off of shore because of their bulky frame and it can become dangerous . The bulky frame inhibits the kayaks ability to absorb waves like a sea kayak can because of it’s slender frame. If you live south there is also the very real danger of getting attacked by great whites, tiger, bull sharks and other creatures and there is the added dangers of getting trapped in a storm, currents and hypothermia to name a few.

So the short answer is try ocean fishing miles off shore if you are well versed in safety procedures and equipment. Otherwise stick closer to land and fish on calmer days.

How Fast is a Pedal Kayak?

You can maintain a speed of 3.5-4.5 mph in a pedal kayak depending on the make and model, in this case it was Hobie Kayak

How to Add a Pedal Drive to a Kayak

Unless you are super handy you will most likely have to get a pedal drive kayak that has a removal option (ie paddle configuration). If you want something super basic you can always give this guys idea a go!

How to Turn a Pedal Kayak

Pedal kayaks usually come with rudder systems that you can steer with your hands. Each manufacturer will have a separate rudder systems that they use that will differ from one to the other

Hobie:

Native Watercraft:

Perception:

How to Troll in a Pedal Powered Kayak

I can try to explain it but it is just better of you watch the below video.

Conclusion

When looking for the best pedal kayak to get for yourself here is how you should decide:

Is the fishing that you will be doing suit pedal kayaks better or is it better to look for a traditional fishing kayak?
If you have decided on a Pedal kayak what is your Budget?
How are you going to haul it? This is a weight dependant criteria.
Where are you planning on fishing? Salt Water? Fresh Water? Lake? On the Coast? In a Bay? On the River? Decide which pedal kayaks suit each environment.
Decide on what kind of Hull you would prefer your kayak to have. If you want better tracking looking for a narrower hull. If you prefer stability use a wider hull
Decide on what accessories you want your pedal kayak to come with. Many Pedal kayak manufacturers have a whole wide array of different accessories you can add.

Most of all have fun paddling and catching all those fish! If you want to tell us about what you have caught let us know!

Derek

Come join our growing paddling community below!

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Best Kayak Roof Rack: With Full How to Guides

September 6, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

The Best Kayak Roof Racks for your Vehicle

Hooray you got a new kayak! Now what? I mean if you got an inflatable kayak you can just throw it in the trunk or back seat and go. Not so much the case with a hardshell kayak. Well the good news is you don’t necessarily have to fork out a good sum of money for a trailer to haul your kayak around (unless if you have more than two) so the best step is to get the best kayak roof rack that best suits your needs!

I don’t think I have to go over the reasons why you need a kayak roof rack as, well it’s pretty obvious. You need to get your kayak from point A to B without portaging your kayak on the side of the highway like this guy.

A good quality roof rack should be something that is well researched in terms of what customers thought of those products. After all you will be driving between 40 to 100 KPH with this thing and you definitely do not want to see your kayak behind your car causing chaos on the freeway.

You should also be looking for a kayak roof rack that is compatible to the vehicle you drive so that you do not have to sell the farm and buy a truck or van. If you are thinking that you do need a truck, van or trailer to transport you kayak, you don’t! I have an old 2003 Buick Century and it can hold two kayaks and pull a tent trailer (all at once for that matter).

From my own personal experience it can be a bit intimidating getting a roof rack and installing the kayak on the rack. I mean you can’t really help but think what if something comes loose? what if the kayak falls off? Well we looked deeply into that and choose the best roof racks for a variety of different vehicles out there.

Table of Contents

Best Kayak Roof Racks for Cars and SUV’s
Best Kayak Roof Racks for Trucks
How to Choose a Kayak Roof rack that fits your vehicle
How to Load and Unload your Kayak :Detailed Steps
Conclusion

Best Kayak Roof Rack for Cars and SUV’s

#1 Thule 898PRO Hullavator Pro

Kayak Lift System

9.0/10 Rating

Fits all Types of Kayaks
Loads Kayak to Waist Level
Easy to Use

Check Price

#2 Yakima Jaylow

Kayak Carrier

8.5/10 Rating

Holds up to 2 Kayaks
Lockable
Great Price

Check Price

#3 Malone HandiRack

Inflatable Universal Roof Rack

7.5/10 Rating

Holds One Kayak
No Tools for Set Up
Best for Short Distances

Check Price

We selected a variety of different roof racks to best represent the number of different vehicles there are out there. Some cars have no bars and just a bare roof, other like SUV’s have bars that you can clip the roof rack onto. The first step when looking for the right roof rack is figuring out what configuration would work for your vehicle and if it can support it. If your car, van or SUV already has rails then you have more to work with and more options. If you have a bare roof read below!

Kayak Roof Racks for Cars without Rails

One of the biggest struggles when looking for a roof rack that is compatible to a bare roof car is finding one that does not require a rail. I know because it took us ages to find one. There are a few ways around this though. You can get an inflatable padding system like the Malone Handirack or you can get Universal roof rack cross bars for your car.

With temporary roof rack cross bars you will be able to support more types of roof rack systems and more options will be available to you. Not just that but you would also be able to transport a wide variety of different things as well. I would recommend temporary roof racks for longer trips as it is more stable and less susceptible to heat stress and higher speeds as opposed to temporary inflatable roof racks that are best for shorter distances.

Kayak Roof Racks for Cars and SUV’s Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) to Expand

Thule 898 PRO Hullavator Pro Kayak Lift System

Features

Life assists up to weight of 40 pounds
All types of kayaks
Corrosion-resistant base
Protective padding

Best For: SUV’s

The Thule 898PRO Hullavator is perfect if you have heavy kayaks. The biggest problem with heavy kayaks is that you have to load it and unload it to and from your car. This is exhausting especially when it comes to loading the kayak back after a long day of kayaking. The Thule 898PRO Hullavator can reduce the loading weight of your kayak by 40 pounds as it takes up the load in its lift system.

The Thule is great when it comes to accommodating a wide range of kayaks. Its cradles are wide so it can easy take hulls that are up to 36 inches.

You don’t need to be tall or strain your back loading the kayak when you use the Pro Kayak Lift. You can literally load at waist level. You can unload and strap the kayak up to 40 inches lower when the kayak is at the side of the car.

Since the Thule Hullavator has gas struts with a capacity of 40 pounds to assist it, you don’t need to wait for another person to help you load the kayak on to the car.

The Thule 898PRO has padded support at 8 touch-points. This gives your kayak a lot of protection when you are traveling. Since the base is corrosion-resistant you are assured that the rack has a long life.

You can buy Thule’s lock cylinders which are one-key so that you can lock the 898PRO securely to the car.

>>What Customers Think<<

Customers were very appreciative that the rack helped reduce back ache and even a person of lower height and weight can easily load and unload a kayak single handedly onto a car. The price point of the carrier is on a higher side but the comfort that the rack gives in loading the kayak is worth it.

What We Liked

Loads the kayak at waist level
Easy to use
Protective padding
High-quality

What We Didn’t Like

You will need Thule crossbars
Set-up is difficult
More images should be included in the instruction manual
Lock sold separately

Yakima Jaylow Kayak Carrier

Features

Up to 2 kayaks or boats
Total weight capacity of 110 pounds
24 inch minimum spreads of the crossbar

The Yakima JayLow Kayak Racks is light, inexpensive and easy to use. The biggest advantage of this carrier is that it can easily accommodate two kayaks as long as the total weight of both the kayaks doesn’t exceed 110 pounds. You can fold the racks down on to the car when you are not using it so that you can an increased garage clearance and get better aerodynamics while driving the car.

The Yakima Jaylow has an integrated cam-lever which allows you to adjust the rack to multiple settings with ease. You can either carry a single kayak in J-Cradle position or you can carry two kayaks vertically. It has a soft bait or sand to wash away. You also get bow/stern tie-downs and heavy-duty straps with the rack. It has a bottle opener integrated into it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bvy1ckjC4E&ab_channel=etrailer.com

Since the JayLow has multiple settings, you can position two kayaks or one on it very easily. The extra padding at the contact points helps to give your kayak proper grip when you are travelling along with giving it added protection. You can also buy and use a SKS Lock Cores to lock the base of the rack. This gives you increased security. It is sold separately and doesn’t come with the rack.

>>What Customers Think<<

Overall, the customer reviews about the Yakima Jaylow Kayak Racks is very good. The price is good and you can easily fold it when you are not using it. It looks good so it doesn’t make your car look unattractive. It is easy to install. The kayak rack has multiple settings so you can adjust the kayaks easily on it. Since it can carry two kayaks, it is great for couples going kayaking. There were a few negative reviews about the durability of the rack but overall the reviews were positive.

What We Liked

Great price
Easy to fold when not in use
Two kayaks
Lockable
Looks great

What We Didn’t Like

If it is not attached properly to the car, you hear whistle sounds of the air passing through the screw holes.
Capacity of only 110 pounds

Malone HandiRack Inflatable Universal Roof Top Rack and Luggage Carrier

Features

Weight carrying capacity of 180 pounds
1 kayak
Multi-purpose
Easy to set-up

With the Malone Roof Top Rack you get all the advantages of a traditional car rack with none of the disadvantages. It is inflatable and you can use it to transport your kayaks and other sports gear. You can even use it to transport furniture. It has a Handi Pump which is double action. This helps you to inflate the roof rack in a few minutes. The roof rack is made of 420-denier nylon which is very tough. It also has 5 D-ring points so that you can straps things securely to it. You can install it on almost every vehicle. It is very strong and it has a weight capacity of 180-pounds.

Since it is inflatable, it is very easy to use. You can set it up easily and deflate it when you are done using it. It is also easy to store when it is deflated as it comes in a handy travel bag.

The Malone Handi Rack can adapt to any vehicle. You can use it with almost every vehicle other than vehicles that have side curtain airbags. Since it is inflatable, it is perfect for car owners who don’t want a roof rack that is permanent. If you do not like the inflatable aspect of this roof rack you can simply cut a pool noodle into pieces and slide it under the nylon cover. This is particularly a good solution if it is hot out and you don’t want the heat to expand the inflatable portion of the rack.

>>What Customers Think<<

Customers were very impressed with the high-quality of the fabric used by the Company when making the rack. The load straps too are very strong and made well. Since it is inflatable, the air chambers give a good cushion between the rooftop of your car and the luggage or your kayak. You can even use it on cars that have glass tops. A couple mentioned that it deflates fast when kept in the sun so you might want to remove it and deflate it when you reach the destination and then inflate it again when you start on your way back.

What We Liked

Strong and sturdy
Excellent weight capacity
Multi-purpose
Easy to inflate and deflate
Don’t need tools to set it up

What We Didn’t Like

Air chambers can’t take too much pressure or heat so it’s best to deflate it or keep it in shade when you go kayaking

Best Kayak Roof Rack for Trucks

#1 Yakima Outdoorsman 300 – Compact

Truck Rack

9.0/10 Rating

Great for Smaller Trucks
Easy to Install
300 Lbs Capacity

Check Price

#2 TMS Utility

Kayak Rack

9.0/10 Rating

Adjustable Width 5-7 Ft
800 Lbs Capacity
Easy to Store

Check Price

#3 Darby Industries 944

Extend-A-Truck

8.0/10 Rating

Can Hold Kayak of 14 Ft
Easily Adjustable
Not Suitable for Low Trucks

Check Price

Trucks have a different configuration when it comes to roof racks that go on cars and SUV’s. Most kayak truck racks have a configuration that involves the bed and tailgate where you can can stack things in the bed of the truck. These racks allow you to have the bed of the truck free to put other stuff you may need such as camping gear.

How to carry a kayak on my pick up without a roof rack

If you do not want to use a roof rack for your truck you can always store your kayak safely with an extension . What you will need though some something soft and secure for you kayak to lie on so that it does not get damaged should you go over any bumps. We will talk more about this particular extension below.

Kayak Roof Racks for Trucks Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) to Expand

Yakima Outdoorsman 300 – Compact

Features

26 inch height
Great for compact-sized trucks
Easy to install
Great weight capacity at 300 pounds

The Outdoorsman 300 Compact is an excellent kayak roof rack if you are looking for a roof rack for a compact truck. In case you have a mid-sized or a full-sized truck, you can opt for the Outdoorsman 300 Full Size roof rack.

The biggest advantage of the Yakima Outdoors Man 300 is that it is very easy to install. You don’t need to do any drilling. You can just clamp the rack to the rails which are on your truck bed and it is ready to take on the load.

You can combine it with round bars so that you can match it to the width of your truck. You will need to buy the round bars separately though.

The Yakima Outdoorsman 300 is very durable and strong and you can easily load weight of up to 300 pounds on it. This makes it easy to carry a couple kayaks in your truck.

>>What Customers Think<<

Most of the customers felt that the carrier is made well, sturdy and durable. It is much cheaper than a bed rail system. You can mount the rack as you please on the length of the trucks bed sides. You get the placement and separation of your choice along the length of the canoes or kayaks that you will be carrying. There were a few complaints about having to buy two separate pairs.

What We Liked

Strong and sturdy
Great placement of the kayaks as per your choice
300 pounds weight capacity
Easy to install due to the clamp rather than having to drill it in

What We Didn’t Like

It can’t be used on trucks having a bed liner.
You have to buy the cross bars separately
You have to buy two pairs
There is no security lock system

TMS 800 LB Adjustable Fit 2 Bars Utility Ladder Rack

Features

Easy to install
Heavy duty steel construction
Multiple kayaks
800 pound weight capacity

The TMS Utility Rack is a set of two racks which is made of heavy duty steel. It is an adjustable ladder rack for a truck. It can be used for multiple functions and can very easily carry items that are bigger or are longer than what can be carried in normal truck beds.

Since the frame of the carrier is very sturdy, you can easily carry over 800 pounds of weight on it. You can adjust the width of the carrier from 5 feet to 7 feet so that you can use it various trucks. You can use it for long distance traveling. The carrier ensures that your kayaks are secure in your truck.

>>What Customers Think<<

Many customers praised its ability to carry multiple kayaks without any effort. It is versatile and can carry many items. It is made of high-quality steel and has excellent weight carrying capacity. A few customers complained that the paint wears off very fast and you need to use rust stop paint to prevent it from rusting.

What We Liked

Adjustable width of 5 feet to 7 feet
High-quality material
800 pounds weight capacity

What We Didn’t Like

The set screws rattle loose easily
Rusts quickly

Darby Industries 944 Extend-A-Truck

Features

Versatility – Can use it as a roof rack and in the trucks bed
Support that is 4-feet wide
Can accommodate a kayak of 14-feet
Easy to store when not used

The Darby Industries 944 Extend-A-Truck is a perfect way to carry your kayak in your truck. You can extend the bed of your truck using it. You can easily store it when you are not using it behind the seat in your truck. You can adjust it as per your requirement. You can use it in case you need it for roof top hauling.

It has a red flag so other drivers behind you are safe if you plan to use it to extend the bed.

The carrier gives you a fully adjustable increase of 4-feet support to your truck. You can easily haul heavy kayaks over long distances either as a roof rack or as an extension to your trucks bed.

>>What Customers Think<<

Overall customers found the carrier very useful especially when you need to transport long kayaks of up to 14 feet. The carrier is durable though there were complaints about the welding. There were few complaints that the shipping material used was of low-quality due to which the product was affected. Made of strong gauge material is and very useful to increase the length of the bed of the truck.

What We Liked

Strong and durable
Easily adjustable
Red flag to alert other drivers behind you
Easy to store when not in use

What We Didn’t Like

Shipping material is low-quality
Not suitable for low trucks

How to Choose a Kayak Roof Rack that Fits your Vehicle

When looking for the best kayak roof rack that can fit your vehicle you have four different roof racks to choose from. What you will be choosing ultimately depends on what you are driving. Your roof will either have a naked roof, side rails or Crossbars which are prevalent on vans and bigger vehicles.

Temporary Pads (How to transport a kayak without a roof rack)
These are best for naked roofs where there is nothing on the roof like cars and various older style cars and vans. Temporary pads are pads like the Malone HandiRack Inflatable Universal Roof Top Rack that are made of nylon and inflate. There are also less expensive foam pads you can use as well like I used to with my old canoe. These roof racks are typically the easiest to install as the straps go around the inside of you car and your kayak will lay on the pads. These pads are not ideal for longer journeys or higher speeds like highway driving. They are best for short trips from your house to the water.

Saddles
Just as the word suggests, saddles consist of usually two cradles that hold your kayak onto the roof. The biggest advantage to having a saddle on your roof is that it secures your kayak in place and insures that there is little movement from winds or other external powers. The down side of these is that if you have a polyethylene kayak it is sitting on it’s floor which is in fact the weakest area. These are more ideal for pointier fiberglass, composite kayaks because they have a much stronger floor that does not dent in. Sea kayaks are also preferred for these racks because they are more aerodynamic due to their point bow and stern which reduces wind drag.

J- Cradles
These are what I use and I actually prefer them because I own two polyethylene kayaks. These are the ideal roof racks for these kayaks because they sit the kayaks on their side which is the strongest part of the kayak (the plastic is thicker). The J Cradles are the most popular roof rack systems because they can fit on a wide variety of cars and they keep the kayaks secure on their side. I will say this though, if you have a narrower car you will have a hard time fitting both kayaks on it! It also takes a bit more strength to stack the kayak on it’s side on the top of your car or van. If this is the case make sure you have someone who accompanies you during your paddling trip. A lot of J Cradles to need vehicle bars but you can find some (like mine) that don’t have them.

Stackers
Stackers keep your kayaks in an upright position on their side. The difference between these and the J Cradles is that the stackers take up less room than J cradles meaning you can stack up to 4 kayaks (depending on the vehicle) on one van. Stackers, unlike J Cradles have a bar that stands upright instead of on the J angle. Stackers are best for vans or vehicles that have the two bars on the roof because they clip onto those bard and use it as it’s support system.

How to Load and Unload your Kayak: Detailed Steps

How to Load a Kayak Onto a Roof Rack

Loading a kayak on and off of a car (especially after a long paddling voyage) can be extremely tiring and a but tricky especially if you are by yourself so we will go through this step by step.

By Yourself (with Pads or Saddles)

First you will need a mat, the kayak and your SUV
Lay the rubberised section of the mat onto your SUV
Lift one side of the kayak up and lean it onto the back of your SV or truck where the mat is
Pick up the other end of the kayak and push it onto the roof
Align it and tie it down

How to lift a kayak onto a roof rack with a Partner (J Crades, Pads or Saddles or Stackers)

You and your partner stand the kayak on it’s edge (cockpit facing out)with your shins holding it in place
bend your knees (seriously do it!) grab the front of the cock pit with your one hand and the back of the cockpit with your other
lift the kayak (not using your back) onto your thighs,
Use one knee to support the boat if need be and lift the kayak straight over you head
Place kayak onto roof rack in its proper position pending on what roof rack system you have going on.

How to Tie a Kayak on a roof rack and secure it

My first recommendation for this is to consult your manual because each roof rack is different from the other, especially if we are talking about J Cradles, Saddles, Pads and Stackers. I have included instructional videos on all the roof racks reviewed so that you can find out which is easiest for your situation. What usually ends up happening is that

You throw the straps over your kayak, to the other side.
You then loop the strap under the roof rack bar, throw it back over the kayak and thread it into the buckle.
It is recommended that you pull the kayak tightly against the rack so that you will not hear the straps humming or clanking against the car or kayak. If you do it’s not a huge deal, it’s just more annoying to listen to than anything else.
Make sure all straps are tight

How to Tie Down a Kayak without a Roof Rack

To do this you simply place the kayak on your roof rack and use a ratchet strap that goes around the inside of your car, over your kayak. If you have a longer boat like a sea kayak I highly recommend that you secure the bow and stern of the boat to the bottom of your car using a rope. I don’t recommend this for long trips on the highway.

Transporting Multiple Kayaks

If you are transporting multiple kayaks it is best to get a kayak stacker (do some measurements first before committing) or a kayak trailer. A kayak stacker can fit about 4 white water kayaks to it’s roof and 3 or 4 recreational kayaks depending on the make of your vehicle. If you are an instructor and you are transporting multiple kayaks it is probably best to go with a kayak trailer or getting a large van or truck with appropriate racks.

How to Lock your Kayak on a Roof Rack

When you are out on a road trip you never know when you need to stop along the way. When this happens it’s best that you lock your kayak to your roof rack.

You can do this one of two ways: You can buy a speciality locking system like the Yakima SKS lock keys or you can do it the thrifty way like in this video:

How to Test your Kayak Roof Rack

before driving away to a quick inspection of you kayak to insure that it is safe and securely in place. try pushing the kayak when it’s on the roof rack to insure that it does not go anywhere. next if you kayak is long enough you secure the bow the and the stern to the bottom of your car to insure that it does not slide around. You now have a secure kayak!

Conclusion

When looking at what roof rack is best for you follow these steps:

Figure out what Vehicle you will be using to take your kayak out
From there figure out what roof rack system would be compatible (some roof rack will specify what model vehicles they can be used on)
Figure out how you will load your kayak on and off of your vehicle (see steps above)
Make sure everything is really tight. Do a test run around your neighbourhood. If you are going long distance then tipple check and add extra support cords on the front and back of your kayak.
If you have not already, figure out where you are going to store your kayak

Derek

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The Best Tandem Kayak for Beginners: Paddle Together with Style

June 24, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

The Best Tandem Kayaks For Starting Out

Tandem Kayaks are a great way to paddle in the great outdoors and experience nature the way it is supposed to be seen. Why do you need a tandem kayak though? Can’t you get a few single kayaks and go out on a nice family trip? You could but depending on how much space you have it may not be the most viable option, that’s where tandem kayaks come into the picture.

In Terms of tandem kayaks these recreational kayak models are the perfect boats to get started in. There are many other different types of tandems such as tandem sea kayaks and tandem fishing kayaks but those are more activity specific and have a much steeper learning curve and are far more expensive. Think of these kayaks as a stepping stone should you want to get into those categories in the future.

Why Tandem Kayaks?

More Transportable, having one longer kayak takes up less space than two kayaks
There are Highly Transportable options: Inflatable Tandem Kayaks
They are great for teamwork and team building
Ideal for couples and families that can work together
Can be used as a Single or Double Kayak
When paddled Correctly Are Faster in the water
Takes less effort when both parties are paddling
Ideal for 4 Legged furry friends
Can be better used for risky situations
More Stable : Longer Kayaks are made a bit wider to be stable in the water

It’s not all sunshine and lollipops with these kayaks though. Often times these kayaks can be affectionately referred to as “divorce boats” because you need to be in sync with each other. If this does not describe your family take a look at our Best Kayaks page for a single seater kayak that better suits your family and your sanity.

Table of Contents

The Best Tandem Kayaks for Recreational Use
Best Tandem Kayaks for the Money
Things to look for if you are new to Tandem Kayaks
Ideally Choose a Kayak that Gives you flexibility
Sit On Top Vs Sit Inside Kayak
Size and Weight
Transportation
Storage
Conclusion

The Best Tandem Kayaks for Recreational Use

#1 Sun Dolphin Bali

Tandem Kayak

9.5/10 Rating

Lots of Storage Room
Stable Platform
Fits 3 People

Check Price on Amazon

#2 Advanced Elements

Inflatable Kayak

9/10 Rating

Easy to Store and Transport
Great Customer Reviews
Made of High Quality Material

Check Price on Amazon

#3 Ocean Kayak Malibu Two

Tandem Kayak

8.5/10 Rating

Great Maneuverability
Light Weight
Not a Ton of Storage Space

Check Price on Amazon

These tandem kayaks have a great durability to price ratio. That is you pay under $1000 and you get a quality kayak in the process that will last for years. Most of the time if you go under the price range of these particular kayaks you start sacrificing quality and paddle-ability (a word I just made up describing the kayak’s on water performance).

These kayaks can also mix it up in a bunch of different conditions such as ocean bays, beaches, large lakes and class I rapids in River Conditions. In a way these tandem kayaks can grow with you as you gain more skill navigating and paddling them.

Tandem Kayaks for Recreational Use Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) below to see Full Reviews)

Sun Dolphin Bali 13.5-Foot Tandem Kayak Review

Feature

When it comes to a tandem kayak which gives you high quality at a decent price, the Sun Dolphin Bali is an excellent choice. It can accommodate up to 3 people and is very comfortable for 2 people.

The kayak has adjustable footrests which give you a lot of flexibility. Since there is an additional seat in the middle of the kayak for a 3rd person, the flexibility helps.
The middle seat would be great for a child as compared to the other two seats it is small and is made of moulded plastic.

One of the most common reasons people buy a tandem kayak is so that their family can join in the kayaking. When you have a child on board, you generally need more essentials then when it is just adults. That’s why you need a tandem kayak which has a lot of storage. Another great feature of the Sun Dolphin Bali is that it has great storage space. There are two storage hatches between the spaces for the user’s legs. There is an additional space in the middle of the kayak. It is small but you can store things easily in it.
Best For: Great for small families, Good for paddlers who want a tandem kayak with lots of storage.

>>What Customers Say<<

Most of the customers online loved the tandem kayak. There are many comments about the steadiness of the kayak. People are very happy with the ample storage space. There are comments about leaking. The kayak has scupper holes which are used to drain water. Water comes in via these holes so you need to keep a waterproof container. There are drain plugs to drain the water.

What We Liked

Amazing amount of storage space
Easily fits three people especially if one is a child
Adjustable footrests which give great flexibility
Steady in the water

What We Didn’t Like

It is heavy. You need two people to load it on top of your car for transport
Water comes in via the scupper holes

Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak Review

Features

Built in Aluminum Ribs in bow and stern
Three layers of puncture resistant material
Three Seat Locations for single or tandem open or closed off use
Spring Valve
Two Adjustable Back Supports
D Ring Tie Downs
Double Coated Fabric
Paddle Holders
Customizable with Drop stitch floor or back bone (sold separately)
Bungee Deck Lacing
Skeg
Duffel Bag
Repair Kit

The tandem kayak from Advanced Elements is a very uniquely designed kayak. The kayak has three seats. You can either sit in the middle and paddle or two people at the front and back can paddle. This allows to you paddle alone or in tandem with another as per your wish.

The kayak is very easy to carry and store as it is inflatable. You can also convert it from an open deck to a closed deck in literally seconds.

The kayak is very steady which is not common in inflatable kayaks. You can stand on the kayak if you want to use it to board other boats or if you want to swap places. Since the kayak has an aluminum frame, it gives more rigidity to the kayak so the steadiness increases.

Since the kayak is 15 foot long, there is a lot of space for all the three persons sitting in the kayak.

The storage space of this kayak is really good. It has deck rigging so that you can store your gear easily. It also has a spray skirt that can be zipped.

The kayak is very durable as it has three layers of high-quality material. This helps in ensuring that the kayak doesn’t get punctured or torn easily.

Best for: Great for three full-grown adults. Good for people who need a flexible, inflatable kayak which is easy to transport.

>>What Customers Say<<

The reviews online are mostly positive. It is very easy to set up as requires about 1-2 psi pressure when it is fully inflated. It fills up very quickly. A lot of people commented on the stability of the kayak. People have slight issues when putting the kayak back into the case. There were a few comments about removing the kayak from the case and putting it back in. You need to keep half an hour spare for each activity.

What We Liked

Very flexible as it is inflatable
Easy to store and transport
A lot of space. Easy to accommodate three persons
Very steady
Strong and durable
Made of high-quality material

What We didn’t Like

No footrests or knee braces
The woven fabric nylon takes long to dry after use
Difficult to put the kayak back into its carrying case

Ocean Kayak Malibu Review

Features

The Ocean Kayak Malibu is the smallest kayak we have reviewed so far. It is 12 feet long. If you have a small car and need a small tandem kayak so that you can transport it easily, this is the one for you.

One advantage of having a smaller tandem kayak is that it is easier to maneuver in the water. It is a very flexible kayak. However, if you are tall or if you want to take the kayak out and there are three adults, this isn’t the kayak for you.

One of the best features of the Ocean Malibu is that it has very comfortable seats and seat-backs, a feature similar in it’s cousin the Scrambler 11. It has wrap around seatbacks. This makes the journey very enjoyable and comfortable.

It has a small third seat but it not very comfortable. It does not have any padding or backrest so even if your child can fit into it, they would be very uncomfortable.

Best for: Long trips for two people as the seats are very comfortable.

>>What Customers Say<<

The kayak is very comfortable. You can easily go for long trips in it. You can use it solo or tandem. At 57 pounds it is not very heavy due to which you can manage it easily. It is very durable but the space in the kayak is not much.

What We Liked

What We didn’t Like

Not suited for tall people
The child seat is uncomfortable and small
Not much storage space

Best Tandem kayak for the Money

#1 Lifetime Tandem

Sit On Top Kayak

9/10 Rating

Very Stable
5 Year Warranty
Tracks Pretty Well

Check Price

#2 Intex Explorer K2

Inflatable Kayak

8.5/10 Rating

Extremely Lightweight
Very Portable
Great for Travelling

Check Price

#3 Intex Challenger K2

Inflatable Kayak

8/10 Rating

Very Eye Catching
Easy to Maneuver
Not a Lot of Space

Check Price

These kayaks are made for mostly having some fun in calmer waters. You can hit a bit of chop but they will be much more difficult to maneuver and paddle in those conditions. These kayaks are budget friendly but a bit limited in terms of performance. Conditions that these kayaks would be great for is calm waters, smaller lakes and slow moving rivers and bays. These are the ideal vessels for some family fun in the water like around the cabin or beach.

They are also great for jumping in and out of the water or relaxing on the lake, just make sure you tie yourself down in case you fall asleep because the inflatable models tend to get carried on the water by the wind.

Budget Tandem Kayaks Full Reviews

Tap (or Click) below to see Full Reviews)

Lifetime Tandem Sit-on Kayak Review

Features

Designed for single or tandem use
500 Lb. weight capacity
Includes 2 soft backrests and 2 double sided paddles
Lightweight 60 lb. design
Tunnel hull design provides ultra stability and tracking;
Seating keeps riders off of kayak floor;
Backed by a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty
Designed for single or tandem use
(2) 2-piece sport paddles included

Though the Lifetime Tandem Kayak is not as affordable as the below two options since it comes in the sub hundreds category as compared to the other two in the sub hundred category, we have included this kayak as for its features, it is still the most affordable non-inflatable tandem kayak.

The Lifetime Tandem Kayak tracks well in the water as it is a rigid tandem kayak. It is very easy to direct. It does not tip over in the water even though it is narrow and it is very stable when you compare it to inflatable tandem kayaks. It has a tunnel-shaped hull which gives the kayak more stability and helps in tracking.

The kayak has soft backrests which are great for an ocean journey or other long distance kayaking. It also has many footrests which make it comfortable. One surprising issue is that the seats are not padded and after a while gets uncomfortable.

Best for: A couple who want a rigid, non-inflatable tandem kayak at an affordable price.

>>What Customers Say<<

Most of the reviews online talk about its stability and ease of use. Though kayak has better tracking than inflatable kayaks, it is not as great in terms of direction when you compare it to higher-range models. It has great weight carrying capacity.

The kayak doesn’t have much storage space and you can only accommodate two people comfortably as it is only 10 feet in length. The body shape of the kayak makes it difficult to strap it sideways on the roof of your car. The weight too makes it slightly difficult to load on to the top of your car. However, for its price, it is a very stable, good-quality tandem kayak.

What We Liked

Soft backrests which are great for your back
Lightweight
Doesn’t tip over and is very stable
Tracks well in the water
Many footrests
5-year manufacturer warranty

What We didn’t Like

No seat bottom padding
Not much storage area

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Review

Features

When it comes to an affordable, high-quality tandem kayak, it does not get better than the Intex Explorer K2. This is the only high-quality, branded tandem kayak which is less than $100 before discount.

It is an inflatable tandem kayak so it is very easy to transport and is very compact. Since it is no very heavy at 33.5 pounds, it is also very easy to carry from your vehicle to the shore.

The material used is high-quality vinyl and the kayak is very durable. The inflatable I-beam floor of the kayak keeps it steady along with keeping it comfortable. It still tends to be a bit unbalanced in the water in terms of direction. They provide a skeg that is removable so that you get additional stability in terms of direction.

The kayak is comfortable as it has two seats which are adjustable and inflatable. It also has backrests for added comfort.

Best for: Kayakers who want a kayak that can hold two people and are on a budget.

>>What Customers Say<<

Most customers say that it is excellent for recreational kayaking especially for a couple. You can enter it easily and since the seats are removable, you can face each other and relax and enjoy while gently drifting on the water. It is very easy to set up and very compact so even fits in a car’s trunk. The material used is good and it won’t tear or puncture easily. It wobbles in the water and is not great for tall people.

See The Full Review on the Explorer K2

What We Liked

Lightweight which makes it easy to carry
Inflatable which makes it easy to transport
The eye-catching yellow color which can be easily identified in case of an accident

What We didn’t Like

Not too comfortable as the kayak is compact at 10.3 feet
Zig-zags in the water
Not very stable

Intex Challenger K2 Tandem Kayak Review

Features

When it comes to price, the Intex Challenger K2 is generally more expensive and is in the $200/- range, however, you get excellent discounts on Amazon which, if you are lucky will bring it down to the sub hundred range.

The main advantage of the Intex Challenger K2 over the Intex Explorer K2 is that it is 11 feet, 6 inches as compared to the 10 feet 3 inches of the Explorer. This makes it more comfortable for a tall person. The Challenger K2 is slightly heavier than the Explorer K2 but you won’t realize the extra weight.

The Intex Challenger K2 has a bright green color which makes it look very sporty similar to the Intex Challenger K1. Like the Explorer, it is very easy to inflate and to transport. The sporty look makes it look much more expensive as compared to its price.

When it is fully inflated it measures 30 by 15 by 138 inches. It can carry a load of 400-pounds.

Best for: If you want a budget tandem kayak for a couple and both or either one of you are tall, the Intex Challenger K2 is a great tandem kayak for you.

>>What Customers Say<<

Most of the buyers online feel that it is an excellent purchase. It does not have major skid or control problems. It is made of high-quality material and is very durable. There were a few reviews about it having leaks but most of the reviewers who had this issue had kept the kayak in storage for a while. The kayak comes with a repair kit so a small leak shouldn’t be a major issue. It is best though to inflate it before you drive to the lake. You could also inflate it as soon as you get it so if you have any leaks, you can immediately ask for a replacement.

What We Liked

Lightweight and easy to transport
Stylish look and great color
Easy to manoeuvre
Very portable

What We didn’t Like

Difficult to pack and unpack
Not much storage space

Things to look for if you are new to Tandem Kayaks

As mentioned above Tandem Kayaks are best if you have a but of experience paddling kayaks beforehand because the learning curve of Tandem kayaks is a lot steeper and it requires more coordination with your partner. As a result they are not often the best vessel to start off with if you were looking for a pure tandem set up. Read this article for more information on how to paddle a tandem kayak.

Ideally Choose a Kayak that Gives you flexibility

I think this is one of the most overlooked criteria of tandem kayaks because having a kayak that can only be configured in the 2 – 3 people range can really limit you. It is dependant on the other person actually going and as we know often times organising with other people can feel like your are trying to herd a bunch of cats. So if you are more stoked about kayaking than your partner then it is recommended that you choose a tandem that has a 1- 3 Person set up so you can have the choice of paddling by yourself, paddling with your kid or dog or even paddling with your partner and kid or dog.

For recreational kayaks flexibility is what will be the difference between you using your kayaks and it sitting in the garage unused.

Look for a Tandem Kayak with High Stability

Stability is the name of the game with tandem kayaks for beginners. Ideally you want to be paddling a kayak that you are comfortable with that does not feel tippy. I remember when I first tried a tandem kayak with a few of my friends we just couldn’t get it launched into the ocean without it being swamped with water. We were trying to figure it out and ended up finding out the problem, my friend sitting on a soccer ball in the middle of the kayak was causing uneven weight distribution and causing it to flip.

The point of that story is to make sure that you are on the same page as the person you are paddling with and mind your balance. It is also important to find a tandem kayak that actually is built to be stable in the water and that it fits that environment. As a rule of thumb the flatter the hull is and the wider the kayak is, the more stable it will be.

Sit on Top vs Sit Inside Kayak?

For a Beginner I would highly recommend sit on top kayaks or kayaks that at least have easy exit and entry. Sit in Kayaks with two two cockpit holes will be a nightmare to right back up if you flip it and there is a very good possibility that it can get waterlogged in the process.

For this you should be properly trained in how to flip your kayak back and re-entry. Sit inside Kayaks are far easier to flip back up and re-entry which makes them the more ideal crafts for beginners. They also have a lot more storage space available and are more versatile.

Size and Weight of Tandem Kayaks

The size of tandem kayaks is often dependant on A) How many people and how much gear you will be bringing and B) the Water conditions that you are paddling in. As a rule of thumb Longer kayaks track better but require more effort in terms of maneuverability while the opposite is true with shorter tandems. If you are planning on going for longer paddling journeys a longer tandem kayak is ideal, a shorter tandem is ideal for environments that require more maneuvering such as rivers.

Something that you should also factor in is weight. Tandem kayaks are generally heavier kayaks which makes them harder to carry and transport to destinations. Keep this in mind when you are shopping for a tandem as this factor alone could be the difference between you using your kayak and not. If you are not confident in lifting and carrying these kayaks to the waterbed you can get kayak carts which you can simply push along like an oversized golf cart.

Transportation

There are several different options to kayak transportation

Get a Roof Rack
Get a Trailer
Get an Inflatable Kayak in a Tandem

#3. on this list is by far the easiest method of transportation as it does not require you to buy anything in support. Simply deflate and put it in the bag! Depending on the Tandem Inflatable Kayak you get some perform well in the water while others will be difficult to get any serious paddling in. The Advanced Elements would be a great tandem kayak to get for on water performance reasons but it is more expensive than either of the Intex models.

The Roof Rack is probably the second easiest mode of transportation if you decide to get a hardshell kayak. There are lots of different kinds available so it is best to read into which one will be the best fit for your car or truck. I will say that you have to have a bit of muscle on you to do this as tandem kayaks can be a lot heavier than solo kayaks, make sure to look up proper lifting techniques.

Getting a kayak trailer is also another option , be it the more expensive option mind you. You can read more about kayak trailer here.

Storage

If your indoor/ outdoor storage options are virtually non existent like mine than you get an inflatable kayak, or find someone that will store your kayak that has the space. If you do have some space to spare you have some options. Thes best part with having some storage room is that you really don’t have to spend a lot of money on it. If you consider yourself more thrifty and a so it yourself type of person you can even build you own!

Indoor Storage

Indoor Storage refers to anywhere that is inclosed like your garage as an example, there are lots of different ways to store your kayak in your garage that do not take up a lot of space . This is usually the best way to go as it insures your kayak lasts longer and you don’t find any critter surprises hiding out in your kayak outside.

Outdoor Storage

If you don’t have a big garage but have a yard outdoor storage it is! Just like Indoor storage you can be creative and build your own storage rack or buy one, just make sure that it is under an awning and that the kayak is fully wrapped with a tarp so that no critters can use it as a home for the winter. It is also important to keep you kayak out of the sun as the UV rays can do considerable damage to your kayak overtime weakening the material and allowing it it crack.

Conclusion

Tandem Kayaks definitely have a bit of a steeper learning curve but if you are able to coordinate there are many benefits that you can get from them such as space, speed, stability and room available. The best best if you are a beginner is to get a vessel that has a 1- 3 person set up so that you are not just dependent on the other person to go kayaking.

Derek

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Choosing the Best Kayak Paddle: That’s a Paddlin’

June 1, 2018 by Derek Leave a Comment

The Best Kayak Paddle's

If you have a great paddle, you will experience a different type of joy when you are kayaking. There are many excellent kayak paddles in the market, but you need a kayak paddle which is perfect for your kayak and you. A right kayak paddle will increase the efficiency of your strokes, help you go straighter and faster, and help you conserve your energy.

Why should You Invest in a Kayak Paddle?

Paddles that come with the Kayaks are often cheap and can break relativly easily
Not all Kayaks come with Paddles
A Good quality Paddle is light weight and allows you to be out for longer
They carry less fatigue after a certain period of time
Your Kayak will track a bit better
They are more comfortable to hold
They will allow you to transfer more energy to the water per each stroke
They look much better

The funny thing is I’m actually in the look out for a new paddles for my kayak as Iv’e grown tired of paddling these big bulky ugly orange paddle blades. So really this list is for me as well as you!

When looking for the best kayak paddle you need to keep in mind many things like the size, shape, and material of the blade, the shape, length, and material of the shaft, etc when you are buying your paddle.We will go through this below. We have compiled a list of the best kayak paddles in the market and the cheapest quality kayak paddles in the market below but first this is the order you should be doing things when looking for a kayak paddle .

Find out what kind of Kayak you are getting
Decide what you will mainly be using the kayak for
Choose a Price Point you are willing to spend on a paddle
Step 3 will be a big determining factor into what blade/shaft materials to get
Choose the right design that best fits your paddling style and needs
Get a Kayak Paddle that is the correct length for you (Look at Manufacturer sizing)

Most times budget will be a big factor when choosing the best kayak paddle for you. If you are just starting out it makes the most sense to look at our Best Cheap Kayak Paddles.

The Best Kayak Paddles

#1 Carlisle Magic Plus

Kayak Paddle

9.5/10 Rating

Lightweight Design
Fiberglas Shaft
Great Customer Rating

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#2 Advanced Elements Compact

Touring Kayak Paddle

9/10 Rating

Strong and Durable
Good Travel Paddle
Great for Low Angle Paddlers

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#3 Bending Branches Angler Classic

Angler Paddle

8.5/10 Rating

Great for un-snagging lines
Made in the USA
Ideal for Kayak Fisherman

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Why These Paddles?

There are many different uses for kayak paddles so we catered to a more rounded crowd. These Kayak Paddles are lightweight manoeuvrable and most of all are at a good price point for anyone who wants a paddle that gives great performance at a solid price. All of these paddles have great overall customer reviews.

Kayak Paddle Full Reviews

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#1 Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle Review

The Carlisle Magic Plus has polypropylene, fiberglass-filled blades and has a fiberglass shaft. The paddle is durable along with being very light-weight. You will get more power with every stroke as it has a spoon-shaped curve to its asymmetric blade. The Carlisle Magic Plus comes in three lengths of 220, 230 & 240 centimeters. The shortest one has a weight of only 35.6 ounces. The strength and light weight of the Kayak paddle ensures that you have a great day on the water.

>>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

Since the Carlisle Magic Plus is a lightweight and very durable paddle, you can look at it as a long-term investment that you will make in your kayaking trips. The blade is asymmetric and spooned so you get more power per stroke. You get it in multiple lengths and in two colors.

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What We Liked

Lightweight: The blade is made of glass-filled polypropylene and the shaft is made of fiberglass. This makes the paddle very light.
Easy to use: The paddle has a wound fiberglass shaft. This gives you stiffness that you would need for a strong stroke and it will also give to you the flexibility that you need to reduce the stress on your body.
Any weather: Another excellent advantage of using a fiberglass shaft as compared to an aluminum one is that it won’t get as hot or cold to touch as the latter.
Storage: The Carlisle Magic Plus Kayak Paddle is easy to store as it can be split in two. This also makes it easy to transport.

What We Didn’t Like

Slightly high priced: The price of the Carlisle Magic Plus is slightly high when you compare it to other paddles in the market but it is well worth its price

#2 Advanced Elements Compact Touring Kayak Paddle Review

The Advanced Elements Compact Touring Kayak Paddle is a durable and lightweight paddle which has a nylon construction. The best feature of the Advanced Elements Compact as its name states is that it is really very compact. You can separate it into four parts and you can easily store it and transport it. You can even carry it in a suitcase.

>>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

The Advanced Elements Compact is a great paddle if you are fine with a medium size one. It is lightweight, strong, durable and easy to transport.

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What We Like

Strong and durable: The Bending Branches Angler Classic is made from fiberglass and it has a two piece shaft is made of composite ferrule and fiberglass. This ensures that the paddle is durable.
Great for kayak fishing: The Angler Classic is specially designed to row fishing kayaks. It has an integrated hook retrieval device in the blade of the paddle. This helps you to free your line when it gets caught. It also has a measuring tool in the shaft to measure the fish you catch.
Length: You get this paddle in a variety of lengths from 220 cm up to 260 cm.
It is made in the USA: The paddles are made in the USA so you are assured that the quality is much better than the cheaper ones you may get in the market which comes from China.

What We Didn’t Like

One size: The only disadvantage of this paddle is that it is only 231 cm long so it is of medium length. Unless you have a wide kayak, it won’t be a problem for you.

#3 Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle Review

The Bending Branches Angler Classic has a straight shaft and blades made of fiberglass. This makes the kayak paddle very light and durable. The main purpose of this kayak paddle is for helping you when you go kayak fishing. There is a hook retrieval system in the blade of the paddle so if your line gets caught, you can free it easily.

>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

The Bending Branches Angler Classic is made for kayak fishing. It is made by kayak enthusiasts so you can be sure that the design and quality are excellent. The paddle is made in the USA and is very strong and durable. The Angler Classic is an excellent paddle for a recreational kayak fisherman.

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What We Like

Lightweight: The Advanced Elements Compact is very light at just 2.7 pounds. It is made of aluminium and the blades are made of nylon which ensures that it is light.
Strong and durable: The aluminium that this paddle is made from is aircraft grade. The blades are reinforced with glass fibres and made of nylon so the paddle is very durable and strong.
Easy to transport and store: The best feature of the Advanced Elements paddle is that it measures only 25.5 inches long when it is taken apart. This makes it very easy to store or to carry when you are going to the sea or lake. It will fit very easily in the trunk of your car
Design: The design of the paddle is great for giving you more thrust especially at low paddle angles. This is because the paddle has dihedral asymmetrical blades and a shaft that is round.
Easy to assemble: Since the paddle separates into four parts, there is always a concern that the paddle may be difficult to assemble. The paddle is very easy to assemble and the parts fit into each other snugly. Even a kid can assemble the paddle.

What We Didn’t Like

Price: When you compare the paddle with other paddles in the market, it is slightly expensive but if you are looking for a good, reliable paddle for kayak fishing then this is the one for you.

The Best Cheap Kayak Paddles for the Money

#1 Sea Flo Adult

Aluminium Kayak Paddle

8/10 Rating

Great for entry-level kayaker
Very Durable
Great Warranty

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#2 Shoreline Marine

Kayak Paddle

7.5/10 Rating

Features Foam Grips
Easy to Store
No Drag

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#3 SeaSense X-Treme II

Kayak Paddle

7.5/10 Rating

Comes in 3 Different Colors
Light and Durable
Comes in Different Lengths

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These Kayak Paddles are best for newer paddlers who don’t want to spend a ton of money on kayak paddles. These Paddles are geared more towards durability then performance.

Budget Kayak Paddles Full Reviews

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#1 Seaflo Adult Aluminium Kayak Paddle Review

When it comes to affordable kayaks which are still strong, durable and have an excellent design, the Seaflo Adult is an excellent kayak to purchase. It is one of the most affordable kayaks in the market and yet it has all the features that a $100+ kayak would have.

>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

The Seaflo Adult kayak paddle is an excellent purchase for its price. It is a great paddle for a beginner. The material used is great and it is very strong and durable.

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What We Like

Great for entry-level kayaker: The Seaflo Adult Aluminum is good for a beginner as it is inexpensive but still is strong and has a great design.
Strong: The shaft of the kayak paddle is made of aluminum unlike other ones in the same price range that are made of plastic. The blades of the paddle are made of fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene which makes it very durable and gives you strong high-angled strokes.
Warranty: The paddle comes with a two-year warranty which is very good given the price.
Easy to transport and carry: The Seaflo Adult kayak paddle can be split into two pieces. This makes it very easy to carry and to store.
Hand grips and water drip stoppers: Most kayak paddles of this price range don’t have hand grips or water drip stoppers. Both are important when it comes to a beginner using it as the grip of a new kayaker may not be firm.

What We Didn’t Like

One Size: This isn’t really a big issue but the Seaflo comes in only one size. It would be great if there were more size options.

#2 Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle

The Shoreline paddle is around and 96-inch kayak paddle. It is lightweight but very sturdy. It has rounded blades and has three positions that you can customize it for. The shaft is made of aluminum and it does not create any drag.

>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

The Shoreline marine kayak paddle is a great paddle for its price. It has an aluminum shaft so it is strong and sturdy and has grips which help improve your kayaking experience. It’s a good deal for the price.

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What We Like

Grips: The Shoreline paddle has foam grips so that your hands are comfortable. It also has drip guards so that you are dry and you enjoy the kayaking experience.
Easy to store: The paddle has three-position locks and you can separate it into two pieces so that you can store it easily.
Speed: The Shoreline paddles are simple to use and you can immediately get speed with it.

What We Didn’t Like

Thin blades: The blades of the Shoreline paddle are thin and made of plastic. Though you can use them without worry, don’t use them for activities where they can snap, for example, pushing the kayak away from the shore.
Paddle latch: The paddle latch that locks the paddles into place is a little difficult to use.
Length: The Shoreline paddle comes only in an 8-foot length, so you need to make sure that you are comfortable with a long paddle.

#3 SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Review

The SeaSense X-Treme II Kayak Paddle is a great paddle when it comes to quality and price. It comes into options and has blades made of nylon and the shaft made of aluminum. It has a great look and many advanced features that most affordable paddles don’t have like having drip guards and hand grips.

>>What Customers Think<<

Recommendation

The SeaSense X-Treme II is an excellent entry-level paddle or a paddle for backup. It is easy to use, light and easy to store. It is also strong and durable and comes at a very attractive price.

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What We Like

Three colors: The old version was in black but the latest models come in Orange/Yellow and Blue/White colors.
Lengths: The paddle comes in two lengths of 84-inch and 96-inch so you can choose the one which is best for you.
Light and durable: The aluminum shaft ensures that the paddle is durable and the nylon blades keep the paddle light.
Easy to use: The blades of the SeaSense X-Treme II are feathered. The blades are positioned at an angle to each other. This reduces the resistance of wind for the paddle that is in the air. This helps to reduce fatigue while paddling and increases the efficiency.
Guards and grips: The SeaSense X-Treme II has drip guards that are adjustable. They don’t allow the water to run down the shaft into the kayak. The paddle has two foam grips so that your hands won’t get calluses. This also makes long-distance trips comfortable.
Easy to store: You can split the paddle into two so that you can transport and store it easily

What We Didn’t Like

Weak Grips: The grips on the paddle may not be able to hold up in rough water. The paddle is more suited for flat water paddling.

Choosing the Right Kayak Paddle for YOU

Choosing the best kayak paddle for your self depends on a few different things that you must keep in mind. We will go through a few of them below.

What Type of Kayak are you Paddling?

You can find out more about these kayaks in our kayak buying guide

Recreational Kayak: These are usually the cheapest kayak paddles of the bunch and are used for casual use. They tend to be less expensive but heavier and are meant for short paddling trips. They usually range in height anywhere from 26” to 30” wide. Often times the shaft is made of aluminum and the blade is plastic. This category also includes inflatable kayaks, fishing kayaks and sit on tops.

Touring/ Sea Kayaks: These paddles are lighter, made for longer trips and are built to last. These paddles are made of carbon fiber and can range between 22” and 25” wide. These paddles are made for rivers, oceans and big lakes, they are the ideal paddle if you are kayak camping or going on a multi day kayaking trip in a sea kayak.

Performance Kayaks: These are the most expensive paddles because they are made for special racing events. These are the most expensive and lightweight paddles you can buy.

White Water Kayaks: These are a different animal all together these are the toughest kayak paddles on the market. When white water kayaking there will be many times where you will be clunking your paddle against rocks and other wonders in the river so your paddles need to be tough. Otherwise will you will be down ___ creek without a paddle! These paddles are also built for manoeuvrability in mind and tend to be shorter.

What Length Kayak Paddle do I Need?

This is a little bit more of a difficult question, while there are standard size charts that people go by this does not always mean it is the right fit. I have come across countless Kayaking groups where people did not agree with the sizing guide. Still if you are a bit newer to kayaking or are buying a kayak paddle for the first time here is the standard Werner Paddle sizing guide courtesy of REI.

Paddler Height	Boat Width
	Under 23″	23″ to 28″	28″ to 32″	Over 32″
Under 5′ tall	210cm	220cm	230cm	240cm
5′ to 5’6″ tall	215cm	220cm	230cm	240cm
5’6″ to 6′ tall	220cm	220cm	230cm	250cm
Over 6′ tall	220cm	230cm	240cm	250cm

Each Paddle manufacturer will have different specifications so as soon as you hone in on what kind of paddle you want check the manufacturer’s website for a sizing guide, most of them have one. As a rule of thumb,

Taller Paddlers and Wider yaks = longer paddles

Shorter Paddlers and Shorter yaks = shorter paddle

Low Angle vs High Angle Paddle

Low Angle Kayak paddles are idea for recreational paddling through calm waters at a slower pace. The idea here is that you are going for a long distance in still and predictable waters. Low angle paddles are a bit longer and thinner but are also lighter.

High Angle Kayak Paddles are better suited for more tricky conditions and is used to gain more speed. As you can see the paddle blade is a bit wider and is used for more control which is what you need in unpredictable environments such as oceans and Class II and up rivers. These paddles are usually used by more advanced kayakers to tackle these unpredictable conditions brought their way.

Blade Materials

Choosing the right Blade materials ultimately comes down to different levels of fatigue, and how well the blade transfers your energy into the water per stroke. Blades that are more expensive tend to be made of more light weight materials while blades that are less expensive will be made of cheaper materials.

The most common blade materials are:

Plastic and Nylon Blades

These are ideal for newer paddlers as they are the least expensive, and one of the more durable blades out there. They require little upkeep but I should caution you not to leave it out in the sun for too long as this degrades the plastic over time which can make it less durable and more prone to cracking. In terms of performance they are the heaviest of the three which will give you greater fatigue over time.

Fiberglass Blades

These blades are the middle man in this category that offers a great blend of performance and durability. While these blades are not indestructible they are not prone to cracking but more so to chipping which will not affect the blade as a whole. These Blades are also in the middle in terms of price range.

Carbon- Fiber Blades

If you are doing any sort of performance related kayaking these will likely be the blades for you. Carbon Fibre Kayak Blades are in their own category in terms of performance as they are truly ultra light and very stiff which allows you to get that extra bit more out of each stroke you take. These blades are the most expensive of the bunch.

Blade Designs

There are several different types of kayak paddle blades out there. The most common are Asymmetrical blade and a dihedral blade. Some even use a combination of both.

Asymmetrical Blades

are narrower and one side is shorter than the other. This design is used for even distribution of water flow when the blade hits the water.

Dihedral blades

has a rib along the center which allows for water to flow evenly through both halves of the blade. Water distribution is relatively uneven on both sides which does not generally track as well as Asymmetrical Blades. Still, a lot of the tracking ability comes down to the actual kayak itself.

Fishing Kayak Blades

These paddles have a J hook on them to retrieve snared fishing lines that are stuck in the water. These blades are usually less about on water performance and more about practicality in terms of fishing use.

Shaft Designs

The Differences between Straight and Bent Shafts

When choosing between the two the preference mostly lies with you. Bent shafts give you a better wrist position for paddling forwards. This is ideal for people who have had wrist problems or injuries in the past that will help the paddling motion be easier on your wrists. It should be noted that your wrist position will be slightly worse off when backing up so theres some trade offs there. Most people use a straight shaft for paddling.

Two Piece Paddle vs Four Piece Paddle

Two piece paddles will have slightly less bend when paddling in the water and will provide more stiffness while paddling. Four piece paddles will have a bit less resistance but will be a better paddle for traveling.

*Hot Tip: If you have in inflatable kayak get a four piece paddle, it will be a lot easier to pack with your kayak than a two piece!

Feathered or matched paddle shafts

Feathered and matched paddle shafts refers to what angle the paddle blades are in comparison to each other. Matched blades are the same on each side whole feathered are angled differently. Feathered paddles are meant as a way to break wind resistance with each paddling motion which can lead to less fatigue for a longer period of time because the wind is hitting the blade on it’s side instead of head on. To be honest if you are starting out you really don’t have to look too far into this and just get yourself a matched set. feathered is more for touring kayakers or paddlers who want to go a long distance.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Carlisle Magic Plus is an excellent paddle when it comes to strength and durability. The Advanced Elements is great if you want a compact paddle. The Bending Branches is great for kayak fishing. If you are looking for an affordable and strong kayak paddle then the Seaflo Adult Aluminium Kayak Paddle is the one for you. If you want a cheap kayak which is lightweight, go for the Shoreline Marine Kayak Paddle and finally, you can consider the SeaSense X-TREME II if you want an attractive, reliable and strong paddle which is within budget.

Derek

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