Best Kayak For Beginners in 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide

A kayak in simple terms, is a small boat that is often driven using a dual-flap paddle. For beginners, it is wise to go for top-quality starter kayaks to enjoy the best kayaking experience.

Purchasing your kayak can be a daunting task as there are several types, models, sizes, and different features. Here, you will get all you need to know as a beginner before getting your first beginner kayak.

The Best Kayaks For Beginners

Find below the best kayaks for beginners:

1. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

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The Lifetime Tamarack angler 100 is the first product we will be considering on our list of best kayak for beginners. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a budget kayak. Although this kayak does not come with most modern features, it provides enough performance at a very affordable price for beginners.

This fishing kayak is one of the products from the famous Lifetime company. It comes as a sit on top kayak measuring about 10 feet and weighing 275 pounds. This kayak comes with a design having a flat bottom with deep tracking channels and chine rails that ensures stability and safety.

In terms of storage, this Lifetime angler kayak comes with plenty of storage space and is capable of carrying more significant items like coolers, beverages, snacks, and bags. It comes with a small and more substantial storage located at the bow and stern of the kayak, respectively. The two storage areas also come with bungee cords to help secure your coolers and other items.

It has two 6-inch hatches in the bow and middle of the boat. These hatches make it possible to store smaller things such as your phone, lures, and other accessories. More so, it features double flush-mount holders, three-rod holders, and an articulating rod holder situated on the cockpit’s starboard side.

In terms of comfort, this fishing kayak comes with adjustable footrest and padded seats. Also, it features carry handles on the front, side, and rear of the boat for easy transportation and handling to and from the water. Besides, it has a larger cockpit space and a couple of footwells for comfortable paddling.

Other features of the angler 100 fishing kayak are that it is UV-resistant and is made from high-density polyethylene. Even more, it has side and front bungees that help to hold the paddle firmly in place.

Pros

• It has plenty of space
• Comes with a paddle
• Features a rail chinned hull that makes the kayak stable
• It is light in weight
• Comes with 5-year warranty
• It is UV-resistant

Cons

• After an extended period of usage, the seat gets uncomfortable.
• It is not suitable for tall people.

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2. Perception Access 9.5 Sit on Top Kayak

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The perception 9.5 kayak is a sit on top kayak that is great for recreational purposes. Perception access 9.5 is capable of providing you with an exceptional kayaking experience at a quite available price. It is a simple and reliable option for both starter and intermediate kayakers.

This sit on top kayak is light in weight, easy to transport, and easy to paddle. It has excellent maneuverability and is suitable for use on both flat water and rough water surfaces. More so, it comes in several color combinations, which means there is always one that will appeal to you.

The access kayak is 9 feet long and weighs about 50 pounds. It features a coated storage at the front of the kayak and another one at the back. These storages come with rod holders in case you want to fish and bungee cords that help to secure your items.

Additionally, it has an integrated seat rest, carry handles, and footpegs that make this kayak durable. This durability helps to eliminate the fears of having your kayak from breaking accidentally. Also, it has extra stern and bow handles that offer trouble-free and secure maneuverability.

For extra comfort, the Perception Access 9.5 has an ergonomic seat and backrest with additional cushion. It also comes with several footrest choices, which makes it possible for you to a suitable position of your choice. This kayak is sturdy, has low maintenance, is abrasive resistant, and boasts of superior UV.

Other key features of this perception kayak include its straight tracking, smooth and stable hull that makes paddling it easy. It also features an integrated cup accessory, fishing rod holders, and carry handles that provide for secure outdoor storage and transportation.

Pros

• It is stable and easy to maneuver.
• Come with ergonomic seat and backrest
• It comes with plenty of storage space for coolers, gears, and other items.
• It has an adjustable seat and several footwells.
• Integrated carry handles for easy transportation.
• It is suitable for use on flat water, surf or moving rivers.

Cons

• It does not come with a paddle
• Center storage hatch is not watertight.

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3. Sun Dolphin Aruba 10-Foot Sit-In Kayak

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The Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 is a sit-in kayak that is made from very high-density UV-resistant polyethylene material. It is not just an excellent option for beginner fishing lovers, and it is also arguably the best kayak for beginners for recreation.

The Dolphin Aruba comes with a narrow stern and bow that helps in keeping it right on track. More so, it cuts the water, instead of the usual pushing like several other blunt designs. It is tough enough to withstand underwater obstacles and occasional rock hits.

The Aruba 10 is 30 inches wide and comes with a flat bottom that is helpful in keeping it stable irrespective of the skill level of the kayaker. With just about 40 pounds in weight, you can conveniently transport your kayak either on your truck’s bed or on top of just any car. Also, you would not need to worry about a helping hand when carrying it from your car or truck to the waterside.

Since it comes with a lightweight and sleek hull design, it is easy to turn and maneuver by a beginner or professional paddler. Besides, its stability and tip-resistant characteristics make it not only perfect for lake touring, but also for rivers, lakes, calm bays, and rivers with strong currents.

When it comes to comfort, the Dolphin Aruba features a padded seat having a backrest. The kayak’s seat is adjustable and is equipped with a height changing feature to meet each user’s preference. It comes with a paddle holder, which allows you to do other things without having to worry about the paddle.

In terms of storage, this 10-inch kayak has a stylish storage compartment that is bigger than you can expect. It has a dry storage compartment at the back, which is capable of protecting essential items from being wet.

Additionally, it features another storage space at the front that is ideal for storing smaller items like water bottles.

Other amazing features of this kayak for beginners include carrying handles for quickly moving the kayak to and from the river. Also, it has adjustable foot braces, a paddle leash, protective thigh pads for keeping you comfortable, and a 2-year warranty.

Pros

• ​It comes with adjustable padded seats.
• Very comfortable
• It is easy to turn and maneuver
• Adjustable seat braces

Cons

• ​This kayak does not come with a paddle.

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4. Sun Dolphin Bali SS 10-Foot Sit-On-Top Kayak

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If you enjoy spending quality time relaxing with nature, then the Bali 10 might just be what you need. This recreational boat is available in six colors and is constructed using tough UV-stabilized Fortiflex High-Density Polyethylene that ensures improved performance.

The Dolphin Bali SS is equipped with a large and comfortable seating compartment having a backrest and high protective pads. Also, thanks to its adjustable foot braces, this kayak is compatible with almost all riders. It is light in terms of weight, which makes it easy to transport to and from the waterside without needing the help of others.

One of the important features that make this kayak one of the best kayak for beginners is that it comes with a unique portable accessory carrier (PAC). The PAC feature serves as a source of extra storage for the kayak. It converts the back of the boat into a spacious floating storage area hence doubling the kayak’s storage capacity.

Additionally, the PAC comes with a carrying handle that helps to make lifting the boat more comfortable when carrying it to and from the campsite. It features a delightful and large sitting area having protective thigh pads and dual dry storage compartments for storing items like keys.

This recreational kayak has excellent maneuverability on water and has two shock cord riggings both at the front and back for additional storage space. Even more, there is a storage area with bungee cords at the bow suitable for storing camping gear, lunch boxes, and other small dry items.

This open cockpit kayak is great for rivers and lakes. Also, its padded thigh braces provide some form of protection between the sides of the boat and your legs. Thanks to its large cockpit, you will always get to enjoy easy entry and exit from the kayak.

Pros

• It has sturdy HDPE construction
• Plenty of storage spaces
• Lightweight making it easy to carry from place to place
• Excellent stability
• Six colors variety to suit your preference

Cons

• It does not come with paddle
• Come as a one-person kayak

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5. Sevylor Quikpak K1 1-Person Kayak

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For those looking for reliable means of enjoying recreational fun, then the Sevylor Quikpak K1 Kayak is just what you need. It comes as a one-person kayak with a sleek design and outstanding features that guarantee a beautiful kayaking experience.

It is convenient, easy to balance, and stable, thus making it stand out as one of the best inflatable kayak for starters. This kayak is easy to unpack from its backpack casing and, at the same time, inflates at a fast rate. It has carrying handles on for conveniently carrying the boat in and out of the water.

This kayak is constructed with a 21-gauge PVC fabric and boasts of a robust strengthened tarpaulin bottom. Its top-quality build helps to prevent it from punctures and tears. Thanks to its dual lock valves, inflating and deflating the kayak is easy and in as little as 5 minutes, you are already in the water.

Additionally, it comes with an adjustable aluminum paddle and a manually operated hand pump. The paddle is capable of breaking down for a more convenient and more comfortable storage. More so, with this kayak, self-propelling is easy as you won’t get to strain yourself while at it.

One of the features that make this kayak stand out is its ability to easily fold up into its carrying pack, making it comfortable and straightforward to transport. Besides, there are several air chambers which further makes it safer while you enjoy kayaking on the water.

When it comes to comfort, this kayak is genuinely comfortable. There’s a multi-position footrest to help you find your most suitable relaxing position. Also, its backrest and foam seat will ensure you don’t develop back pains during long rides.

The Quikpak K1 with ergonomic design features an air pump, an oar, and a cup holder. Even more, it has a carry bag that also serves as the seat and bungee cords for storing additional gear at the front of the kayak.

Pros

• It has an airtight system that protects it from leaking
• Seat doubles as a backrest
• 21 gauge PVC assembly
• Features a multi-position footrest
• Excellent stability

Cons

• Low-quality paddle
• Not suitable for rough waters

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How To Choose The Best Kayak For Beginners

Without a doubt, purchasing a kayak is thrilling yet challenging. Only those who are equipped with the appropriate knowledge on choosing the best starter kayaks will find it easy.

If you are a novice or beginner when it comes to kayaking, it is vital to give priority to stability. Stability is primary because launching your kayak into a river, lake, or other water bodies is very tricky and complicated.

Also, having to paddle and control the kayak is yet another challenge, so a kayak with excellent stability will be quite helpful to a beginner.

Additionally, since you are new to kayaking, you do not need to go for an expensive option. In this section, you will see everything you need to know about choosing the best beginner kayaks.

1. Types Of Beginner Kayaks

Irrespective of the model or manufacturer, kayaks are available in quite several varieties and types. As a result, it is not wise to just pick any boat you first come across.

Since kayaks for beginners come in different types, it is necessary always to consider the type of kayak that will fit into your style and preference. Are you looking for a kayak for rowing on fast waters or one for fishing? Or even one that is capable of carrying you and your partner and storing enough luggage for your camping- there is a kayak type for you.

You must, however, note that one boat type might not work as a substitute for the other. For example, a fishing boat cannot serve perfectly as a recreational kayak and vice versa. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the various types of the best beginner kayaks:

• Fishing Kayaks

This type of kayak is designed mainly for anglers. They come with enough room for comfort and additional space for storing gear. More so, since it is for fishing, it has several fishing items such as anchor, rod holders, among others.

• Whitewater Kayaks

This type is made uniquely for paddling fast and rough waters. It is an exceptional option for anyone who lives in areas having whitewater bodies and will want to take part in sporting on such water. If this is the situation you find yourself in, it is safer to use a dedicated whitewater kayak, as using another type is dangerous.

• Recreational Kayaks

This kayak is arguably the most common boat type you can find. They come with features that make them capable of being paddled on flat lakes, gentle rivers, and other water bodies that are less demanding.

Additionally, these boats are easy to use, comfortable, and are generally affordable. The recreational kayaks do not have a particular function or use as they come with the capacity to do a bit of everything.

• Touring Kayaks

These types are built to be general-purpose boats that work perfectly in deep open waters. They stand out when it comes to efficiency, long trips, and speed. Besides, they come with space for your camping gear and have sturdy construction, which makes them able to withstand paddling rigors.

• Tandem Kayaks

These types of boats are designed to be able to accommodate two paddlers. They can come in any way, as long as there is space for two individuals. It can be in the form of having two cockpits, except if the kayak is a sit on top type.

• Inflatable and Folding Kayaks

These types of kayaks are cheap, simple to carry and transport, and are robust, which makes them great for starters. They are versatile and are suitable for use in different situations, whether flat or seawater.

Additionally, they are foldable and conveniently fit into the trunk of your car, hence making them easily transportable. So if you are looking for an option that you can easily carry along anywhere you are going to, this is the best boat for you.

They are light in weight, which makes them easy to manipulate by beginners. Also, they are easy to store since they require drying before storage. More so, they are easily repairable when they get punctured through the use of a puncture kit.

• Sea Kayak

When it comes to the sea kayak, the critical concern is more on stability than on speed. With this type of kayak, since you will always be on the sea, you will get to enjoy the level of stability you need to for the best kayaking experience.

These types of kayaks are durable and extremely stable in water. Also, they come with flat hulls that help to keep the boat from capsizing and an inflatable stand paddle.

• Surf Kayak

The surf kayaks like its name, resembles a surfboard, except for the fact that they are kayaks. This kayak is made specifically for getting waves and moving through water. As a result, they feature robust edges and flat hulls that make riding them convenient, just like surfboards too.

• Hard Shells

The hard shells kayaks are constructed with various materials. Generally, the most reliable hard shell materials available are those made from plastics. It is so because they are highly resilient and sturdy.

Additionally, they are at the same time inexpensive compared to those made from carbon blends and fiberglass. However, the latter types are often more widely used, since they are lighter in weight.

It should, however, be noted that while carbon blends and fiberglass are now more widely used because they are sturdy, they get damaged easily. But as an entry-level kayaker, there is not likely a possibility that you will need a high quality and complex boat.

2. Sit on Top vs. Sit inside Kayaks

We will be taking a look at the two types of kayaks available, highlighting their pros and cons to provide you the necessary information you need in making the right choice.

a. Sit on Top Kayaks

The sit on top kayaks are lately reasonably accessible when it comes to the boating world. They provide several advantages, which include durability, ease of usage, self-bailing, simplicity, among others.

Since you get to sit on top of these kayaks, they often come with sufficient space for beer, goodies, and gear. Also, they are an excellent option for recreational and fishing kayaks.

Pros

• This type of kayak is very beginner-friendly as getting in and out of them is easy. Also, if you are scared of being enclosed in confined spaces, then this kayak’s enclosure might not make you feel comfortable.
• This type of kayak comes with a self-bailing capacity, since they come with a feature known as “scupper holes.” The scupper holes are holes that make it possible for water that is splashed into the kayak to go out.

Cons

• It is ideal for only warm water/weather conditions.
• With this kayak, there is a high possibility that you will get wet as a result of dripping water from the paddles and waves splashing.

b. Sit Inside Kayaks

Just like the sit on top kayak, the sit-inside kayak also comes with foot pegs/pedals and a seat hence always get comfortable and convenient paddling. The difference, however, is that with this type of kayak you are inside an enclosed cockpit.

Additionally, it provides you with some form of protection and supports attachment, such as the spray skirt, which helps protect water and wind.

Pros

• This type of kayak is great at sheltering your body’s lower part from wind, and as a result, it is at a warm temperature while you paddle.
• It provides you a lower profile; hence it makes it a bit easier when it comes to paddling since there is a lesser amount of wind resistance. More so, it provides you a lower center of gravity that makes it stable compared to the sit on top type kayak.

Cons

• This type of kayak is a bit more challenging to go in and out, which makes it less comfortable for those who are not flexible.
• The sit-in kayak does not support self-bailing, and as a result, you will always need to flip the boat over when water splashes into it.

3. Kayak Materials

Kayaks are made with different materials. However, there are some common types. For entry-level kayaks, they come in mostly two kinds of plastics. But advanced ones are mostly made of wood or fiber.

• Polyethylene – Polyethylene material is used for most cheap beginner kayaks. It is durable, resistant to abrasion, and can withstand tear and wear. They are very common and are readily available in a good number of sporting products stores. The cons, however, is that they are easily broken when they come in contact with sharp objects and rocks. Besides, they are heavy and are prone to damage due to extended exposure to sunlight.
• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) – The ABS plastic is arguably the second most common material used in the construction of kayaks. This material is a bit lighter and offers mechanical superiority than poly boats. More so, the ABS naturally provides more resistance to UV light compared to polyethylene. But for longevity, it is still safer to store the kayaks in the shade.

4. Kayak Length

Like every other piece of equipment kayaks also come in various lengths. For starters, often, any low priced kayak will serve them for recreational use. But if you are interested in a more versatile kayak like sea touring or whitewater, then the length of the boat will matter a lot.

It is worth noting that short boats are more responsive. Although longer boats move straight in water, they are harder to control. Also, longer boats move at higher speeds when paddled than shorter kayaks of the same kind.

Additionally, kayaks typically vary in length from 7 to over 14 feet. You may be careful to consider buying a boat that can comfortably fit into your storage space or car’s trunk.

5. Width and Depth

Finding a beginner kayak that meets your desired depth and breadth might be nearly impossible. However, with custom and high-end kayaks, you can get your desired characteristics and precision.

Entry-level kayaks, however, do have few differences in terms of how deep and wide they are. Wider kayaks provide improved rotational stability. Also, they are exceptional for getting inside and out of the kayak.

However, if you are concerned about tipping, you can trust this boat to help you remain upright and stable, like in a canoe.

The disadvantage is that it comes with a broader hull that causes increased friction and drag. As a result, it slows down with every stroke, hence adding additional work to your journey.

Additionally, deep kayaks come with plenty of room in the cockpit. They feature a deck that is extendable above the waterline. Furthermore, they are suitable for those looking for additional space for stretching your legs.

They are, however, not without a downside, as the higher the boat’s hull, the easier it is for it to catch wind. So, if you are not able to buy a customized kayak, you can compare several entry-level boats side by side to check for the features you need.

6. Kayak Hulls & Stability

Overall, a kayak’s stability plays a crucial role in determining how comfy you get to feel on water. Interestingly, a sit on top kayak is one of the most stable types you will find for beginners.

It is vital to take out time to consider the way you will make use of your kayak and how it will meet your needs.

• Primary Stability – This type of stability determines the level of stability of your kayak when you get into it for the first time. The higher the primary stability, the less likely you are to flip over when you enter your boat for the first time.
• Secondary Stability – This type of stability shows the level of stability of a kayak when the side tips it. The higher the secondary stability, the less likely you will roll over while paddling.

On the other hand, here’s a breakdown of the types of hulls you will find:

• Flat kayak hull – These types of boats provide superb stability when they are flat on the water. They are mostly found among sit on top type and may flip over when they are tipped up on edge.
• Pontoon hull – This type of boat is more stable than the flat hulls type. They are great for kayak anglers and also a famous sit on top hull shape kayak.
• Rounded hulls – When it comes to improved maneuverability, and faster speed, this type of kayak hulls stands out. The downside, however, is that they are a bit unstable when you try to sit still, get in and out.
• V-shaped Hulls – This type of hull is able to cut through water and glide straight wards easily. It provides speed with minimal effort than other kayak hull types. They are excellent for recreational paddling and touring. However, they do not offer so much in terms of stability.

7. Features Of Kayak

• Spray Skirt – This is a common feature with touring and whitewater boats. The spray skirt helps prevent water and waves from getting into the cockpit, hence keeping you warm and protected.
• Rocker – This is another feature to consider when choosing a kayak. The number of rockers a boat comes with determines the amount of arc shape it has.
• Skeg – The skeg is a retractable and detachable fin that helps to stabilize the kayak when it is in water. More so, it helps keep the kayak continuously in a straight path. It is notable to say that not all kayaks come with a tracking fin.
• Rudder – Although the rudder is similar to the skeg, it is useful when it comes to adjusting the direction the kayak takes.
• Bow and Stern – The bow is the front of the kayak while the stern is its back. You will need to check to see that it comes with a bow and stern that suits your style.
• Storage Hatches – Storage hatches provide extra space for gears when you are either on a single or multi-day paddling journey. Although they may seem like the best storage space, they can also have their downsides. Even though they are capable of providing space for more gear, it is advisable also to buy dry boxes or bags to store your sensitive equipment.
• Scupper Holes – The scupper holes are round holes that are integrated into the boats. They are located at the footwell of several sit on top kayaks. This feature helps to release water from the footwell area.
  While the sit in kayak will require a hand pump system to bail water, the scupper holes conveniently allow water to go out through the sides of your kayak.
• Gunwales – Gunwales are simply the sides and rails of the kayak. Different kayaks come with different gunwales. Some come with gunwales with molded handles, others come with rubber handles. Moreover, some even come with attachments that ensures easy securing of fishing gears and other items.
• Chine Rails – These are the points by which the kayak’s bottom touches its sides. They help to define the kayak’s hull and comes either as soft or hard chines.

The hard chines offer improved edge control, hence better maneuverability, but they make the kayak prone to flipping over when it’s harder edges are caught. On the other hand, soft chines make the kayak’s action predictable when its bottom strikes any shallow area.

8. Brands Of The Best Kayaks For Beginners

As kayaks continue to gain popularity, more manufacturers and brands are now available in the market. Some specialize in specific brands and types. Since your focus is on beginner kayaks, we will discuss them below:

• Ocean Kayak – This brand is one of the best kayak for beginners we are featuring. This brand of kayak has been in existence for several decades and has produced a variety of kayaks, which also includes entry-level models.
• Old Town Canoes and Kayaks – They are currently a subsidiary of Ocean Kayak. They have been able to maintain their reputation and boasts an array of kayaks. Also, they have been able to maintain a consistency in quality.
• Wilderness Systems – This brand was established in 1986 and is known for making fishing kayaks. Additionally, they also have a superb lineup of kayaks for beginners.
• Perception – With over 40 years of existence, they have mastered the kayak. Their lineup of kayaks is arguably the most comprehensive compared to other manufacturers.

9. Which Kayak Is Better Between Sit On Top and Sit-In Kayak?

It is relatively difficult to choose one type over the other, because what is suitable for one may not be for the other. So, it is a matter of choice and preference of the kayaker. However, we have outlined some questions you must answer to help you in choosing the better one.

10. Where Do You Want To Carry Out The Kayaking?

Where you will be paddling is the first question you will need to answer. Whether it is a river, lake calm water, or ocean, each comes with its unique characteristics. This point will help you to pick an appropriate kayak type.

• Lakes – This is where several kayakers enjoy using kayaks most. Generally, both the sit on top and the sit-inside kayak will provide you the comfort and fun you need to enjoy your ride. Also, if you love to enjoy a broader view and to paddle all around, then a shorter and more broad choice will be great for you.
• Rivers – Since whitewater and rivers with fast flow are not suitable for beginners, we will not consider them. Our focus here is a slow and flat river that you can glide along with its current and float. For this type of river, you will need a short, robust, and responsive kayak. Interestingly, either a sit-in or sit on touring kayak will work correctly.
• Coast – Coast is one of the most exciting kayaking environment as you get to enjoy the right waves and winds while you ride. For a tropical sea, a sit on top surfing kayak or a sit in kayak with a spray skirt is a perfect choice.

11. Do You Have Fears Of Tipping Over The Kayak?

Sit-in kayaks are stable since you sit low in the boat, hence having a low center of gravity, which helps to provide improved stability. The con is that it is difficult to get into this kayak, and it’s likely to get submerged.

12. What Weather Conditions Will You Be Using The Kayak?

If you intend to use the kayak in cold weather conditions, then a sit-inside type is the right choice for you. But if you want to use it in warm or hot weather conditions, the sit on top type is best.

Benefits Of Kayaks For Beginners

The benefits of kayaks for starters are quite evident as they are health-related benefits. Kayaking is a sport that offers several benefits ranging from weight loss to stress reduction, among others. Below, you will find several benefits of kayaking for starters.

• Weight Loss

This factor is one of the most critical advantages of kayaking. With this sport, you get to burn up to 400 calories every hour you spend cruising your kayak. It means that you will typically get to burn around 1,600 calories after an afternoon ride.

Although it has a lower rate of calories burnt compared to other sports, you will still get to burn calories no matter how small. However, you spend long hours kayaking, unlike other games.

• Stress Reduction

There’s nothing that is more fun than having to enjoy voyaging while reflecting on several life issues. Paddling and cruising across water all by yourself and viewing the beauty of nature is one sure way of reducing stress from life issues and busy work schedules.

When you make use of the best starter kayak, it will provide you a fun-filled and relaxing feeling. After engaging in such an activity for up to a week, your stress level would have reduced significantly.

• Happy and Clear Mind

This factor is yet another benefit of using a kayak for beginners. Kayaking helps to improve overall mental health. Generally, engaging in various forms of exercises like cycling, aerobics boosts certain chemicals in the brain, and kayaks are not an exception.

Also, kayaking is an excellent way of getting rid of negative thoughts and ideas from your mind. Since it is an activity-based exercise, your heart will become free or other issues and challenges.

• Social Bond

Since using a kayak doesn’t require any technical knowledge or a long period of learning, kayaking is a sure way to connect with family and friends. You can decide to use kayak for beginners when you want to go on vacation or time outs with friends and family.

It will help you to bond more with friends, family, and others you will meet while riding. The good part is that social events and gatherings are a great way of improving your lifestyle, and kayaking for starters is a great option to consider.

• Cardiac Health

Just like every other aerobic exercise, kayaking is an excellent way of improving the state of health of your heart. Your heart requires regular exercise to keep it fit since it works continuously.

The body movements from paddling the kayak improves heart rate hence optimizing the general well-being of your heart.

A. Pros And Cons Of Using The Best Kayak For Beginners

No matter how good a product is, it will always have a downside. Similarly, no matter how wrong a product is, it will always have a few pros. Kayaks are no different from other products as it also comes with its pros and cons.

Pros

• It can be power-driven via battery for the trolling motor.
• Helpful in preventing heart diseases.
• It serves as a means of outdoor sports.
• A great way of uniting family and friends, and also solidifying social bonds.
• It is a great stress reliever
• Useful in weight loss and reduction.

Cons

• Best kayak with paddles for beginners can capsize if not properly padded.
• It is a sport whose equipment is expensive, and it is risky to undertake.
• Can splash water on your body and get you wet.
• You are exposed to water filling up the kayak from recurring splashes of water due to ocean waves.

B. Steps To Follow In Maintaining Your Kayak For Starters

• Step 1 – Always check your kayak for any form of damage, especially the hull.
• Step 2 – Always check your kayak for old accessories and parts and then fix new ones where necessary.
• Step 3 – Cleanliness is another important aspect of maintaining your kayak. Keep the paddle, cockpit clean and free from rats and other insects.
• Step 4 – Since you will always have to use the kayak on the water, you must ensure you still dry it. Also, make sure the battery powering the trolling motor is dry and charged always.

C. Do’s and Don’ts When Using A Kayak For Beginners

1. The Do’s of Using an Entry Level Kayak

• As beginners, always go along with a paddling friend to the waters
• Have a “togetherness agreement” with the friend you are going with
• Know your cruising distance limits
• Carry out a detailed but straightforward hazard research
• Know the water’s temperature

2. Don’ts of Using an Entry Level Kayak

• Ensure not to forget to check the temperature. It is even more critical if your kayak comes with an inflatable stand-up paddle.
• Apply extreme care and caution when using a spray skirt.
• Always ensure to use the distress whistle when in danger.

D. Essential Gear To Bring When Kayaking

• Personal Floatation Device

This gear is probably the first thing to carry along while going kayaking. A floatation device helps to keep you afloat when your boat capsizes. It will ensure your head remains above the water hence preventing you from drowning. If you say this is the most crucial gear to carry along, you would not be wrong.

• Flotation Bags

These are small bags that help prevent water from flooding the kayak, which can lead to its capsizing. More so, they help in making the boat remain afloat all through your cruising, hence ensuring maximum safety while riding.

• Helmet

Yes, you are right, helmet. Contrary to the belief that head helmets are ideal for bicycle and motorcycle riders, it is an essential kayaking gear. The head helmet is particularly important as it guards your head from getting hit when your kayak gets dislodged.

• Spray Skirt

If your intention is to use your kayak in rough water and stormy environments, then the spray skirt is essential. The spray skirt blocks water from entering into the kayak, thereby capable of making it sink.

• First Aid Kit

It is nearly impossible to know when an accident will occur. As a result, having a first aid kit will not only help to provide initial treatment and care, but it will also help to provide necessary aid to an accident victim before going to the hospital.

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FAQ

🛶 1. What is the best type of kayak for a beginner?

Overall, even though this will depend on your style and preference, a sit on top beginner kayak is the best for starters. These types of kayaks are easy to paddle and very affordable. More so, they offer more excellent stability and are very convenient when it comes to getting in and out of the kayak. Additionally, the sit on top kayaks are suitable for beginners who want to use the boat for fishing.

🛶 2. Are the paddles that come with the kayak good Enough?

It is a bit difficult to provide a direct answer to this question. The reason is that it depends on many factors, like the cost of the kayak, manufacturer, paddle material, among others.

However, if you intend to use your entry-level kayak paddles for longer trips more frequently, you will need to upgrade your paddle. The amount of time and usage you plan for the kayak will determine whether you will need another paddle.

🛶 3. Should I wear a life jacket?

Since they do not guarantee the safety of your life, the right name to use is personal floatation devices (PFDs). Apart from first checking the laws of the state in regards to kayaking, know whether it is illegal not to wear one.

It is a wise thing to wear one because it helps to keep you afloat in cases where the boat capsizes. More so, high-back personal floatation devices are best because they get out of the seats hence helps with sweat and posture.

🛶 4. What is the most suitable way of transporting my kayak?

There is no singular way as it depends majorly on your situation. If your car has a roof rack, you can make use of it. If it does not have one, you can get one installed at your car accessory store.

Also, if you have an SUV, you can make use of a side carrier; otherwise, simply make use of a kayak trailer. For those who have a truck, just put the kayak on the bed of the car.

However, those having smaller cars are not left out as they can make use of the strap and easy-foam block method by carrying the kayak on top of the vehicle.

🛶 5. Do kayaks flip quickly?

Contrary to popular beliefs, kayaks do not quickly flip even though they look easy to tip. Kayaks, mainly recreational and beginner kayaks, are stable. Most kayaks for beginners come with a flat bottom that makes them hard to flip.

🛶 6. Is Kayaking Safe for Non-swimmers?

The simple answer is no. It is safer to know how to swim before trying kayaking out as it will ensure your safety in case of an accident. Although another perspective will be that you can go kayaking without knowing how to swim; this perspective hinges on the fact that you can make use of personal floatation devices.

🛶 7. Is Kayaking Very Good Exercise?

Yes, it is. Kayaking is an effective way of losing weight. It is estimated that an hour of kayaking translates to a loss of up to 400 calories. Besides, the paddling process helps to build and strengthen your muscles.
What are those black screws-in storage holes used?

The black holes on the kayak are for storing your personal and valuable items like phones, wristwatches, among others.

Best Kayak For Beginners – Your pick?

Overall, although choosing the best kayak for beginners can be difficult, with the right information, it can be more comfortable than imagined. As a beginner, making the wrong choice when buying your first kayak is capable of creating a terrible kayaking experience.

In this piece, you will find everything you need to start kayaking as a beginner. It is crucial to look for a stable, durable, and comfortable kayak before setting out on the water. With this in mind, you are sure going to make the right choice.

Additionally, we have provided you a review of the best beginner kayaks and a buying guide to help you make easier decisions.