Kayak, Ski or Canoe? Which do I choose?
Choosing the right craft to paddle in can seem a daunting task, with many options available. We’ve broken down the main types and uses to help you navigate. If you’re still needing advice, contact our helpful team to discuss.
Kayaks
There is a large range of kayaks to choose from. Each is designed for a different use including recreational, white-water, sea kayaking, slalom, sprint and marathon.
Kayaks are closed deck craft (enclosed cockpit) where the paddler is in a seated position using a double-bladed paddle, pulling the blade through the water on alternate sides to move forward. The wider the kayak the more stable, the longer the kayak the less stable. If you capsize in a kayak you will need to know how to roll or conduct self or assisted rescue.
Sit-on-Top (Ski)
Sit-on-tops are similar to kayaks however they do not have a cockpit. They have a formed seat that is part of the deck that you sit on. Sit-on-top craft cover the full range of paddling including flatwater, whitewater and ocean. A more common competition sit on top is called a Ski.
If you capsize on a sit-on-top, you turn it over and climb back on! They are unsinkable so they are great for recreational fun and adventure racing.
Canoes
Canoes are open-deck boats where you are seated or kneeling using a one-bladed paddle, often with continuous strokes on the same side. A traditional canoe is a very large stable craft. They are great for packing in gear and enjoying the journey, but you won’t get there quickly. Like kayaks, there are different types of canoes used for many paddlesports such as recreation, sprint, marathon, and slalom.
